In the city of Long Beach, health officials are raising concerns about a tuberculosis outbreak at a local hotel. The outbreak has led to the declaration of a public health emergency by the city after 14 cases were detected at a single-room occupancy hotel. Nine people have been hospitalized and one person has died as a result of the outbreak.
Dr. Anissa Davis, Long Beach’s health officer, made the declaration last week, noting that the outbreak is isolated to a specific population. This population faces challenges such as homelessness, housing insecurity, mental illness, substance use, and serious medical conditions, making it difficult for them to access care. At least 170 more people have likely been exposed and are being tested.
Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually attacks the lungs but can also affect other organs. The disease spreads through the air from person to person, especially in small, enclosed spaces. Not everyone who is infected with TB bacteria becomes sick, but symptoms may include a persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, chills, fever or night sweats.
The Long Beach health department has not disclosed the date of the first recorded case of tuberculosis. Public health officials are working to contain the outbreak and provide care to those affected. Anyone who may have been exposed is encouraged to seek testing.
