Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, with outbreaks occurring worldwide and domestically. According to the World Health Organization’s 2024 report for the United States, TB rates are rising, particularly among individuals from countries where TB is prevalent and those with limited access to healthcare. Experts stress the need for ongoing research and prevention efforts.
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School’s Public Health Research Institute, Emerging Pathogens Center (EPC), and the Global Tuberculosis Institute are leading in TB research, prevention, and treatment. Rajita Bhavaraju of EPC and Jerrold Ellner of Rutgers discuss TB’s nature, spread, at-risk populations, and Rutgers Health’s role in combating it.
“TB is an ancient disease still present today globally,” said Bhavaraju. “It is the most common cause of death due to an infectious disease.” TB spreads through the air when people with active disease expel bacteria. Most cases occur in the lungs; extrapulmonary TB affects other body parts but is generally not contagious.
TB manifests as either infection or active disease. Infection means bacteria are present without symptoms or contagion risk. Active disease involves bacterial multiplication causing symptoms like cough and fever.
Anyone exposed to someone with TB can become infected, although many remain symptom-free lifelong. Those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of developing active disease.
Bhavaraju explained that “TB infection is treated with a combination of one or two drugs for three to six months.” For those who test positive for active disease, multiple drugs over at least six months are necessary.
Ellner highlighted Rutgers NJMS’s historical role: “NJMS has been at the forefront of TB care since the early 1970s.” The school conducts clinical trials on new medications; notably, Rutgers discovered the first TB drug in 1943.
The RePORT International consortium coordinated by NJMS studies persons with TB across eight countries using standardized data approaches to develop prevention strategies applicable globally or tailored regionally.
March 24 marks World Tuberculosis Day, commemorating Robert Koch’s discovery of the bacterium in 1882. This day raises public awareness about TB through education and advocacy initiatives aimed at government engagement for local action plans.
