A Deadly Tuberculosis Outbreak in Homeless Hotel Leaves One Dead

California Health Officials Declare Public Health Emergency

Deadly Tuberculosis Outbreak Claims One Life in Homeless Hotel

An alarming outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) has occurred inside a California hotel housing homeless individuals, resulting in the death of one person and prompting city health officials to declare a public health emergency. The Department of Health and Human Services for Long Beach revealed on Thursday that the undisclosed hotel has reported 14 cases of tuberculosis infection, leading to the hospitalization of nine individuals. The identity of the deceased person has not been disclosed.

City officials have emphasized that the outbreak is currently limited to a specific population, minimizing the risk to the general public. However, the population at risk, which includes homeless individuals, faces significant barriers to care such as housing insecurity, mental illness, substance abuse, and other serious medical conditions.

This 2006 electron microscope image shows Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. (Janice Carr/CDC/AP)

Increasing Concerns over Tuberculosis Cases

The occurrence of this recent tuberculosis outbreak at the California hotel is a reflection of the growing concerns related to the spread of this infectious disease. According to the CDC, the number of registered tuberculosis cases in the United States surged in 2023, reaching the highest point in a decade. The reported cases increased from 8,320 in 2022 to 9,615 in 2023, representing a significant rise of 1,295 cases across all age groups. The CDC data from 2013 indicates a nearly 10,000-infection baseline.

Priority to Protect Patient Privacy and Comply with HIPAA

Authorities have decided not to disclose the name of the hotel to uphold patient privacy and adhere to The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. It is important to note that the hotel in question is privately operated and is not affiliated with the City of Long Beach.

Efforts to Control the Outbreak

In response to the alarming situation, the health emergency declaration has been made to strengthen the city’s preparedness and response capabilities to the tuberculosis outbreak. Health officials estimate that approximately 170 individuals have been possibly exposed to the disease and are currently in the process of being screened through various tests to identify active tuberculosis or latent tuberculosis infection. Treatment will be offered to those found to be affected.

Tuberculosis under a microscope and a Chicago migrant shelter. Chicago health officials last month announced that a “small number” of tuberculosis (TB) cases were reported at some migrant facilities in the city. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images, NIH/NAID/IMAGE.FR/BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images, BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Understanding Tuberculosis and Its Mode of Transmission

Tuberculosis is primarily transmitted through airborne particles and typically affects the lungs. However, it can also potentially impact other vital organs such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Notably, tuberculosis is not as contagious as other respiratory ailments, including COVID-19.

Expert’s Insight

“You can catch tuberculosis if someone is coughing or sneezing or in close contact. The bacteria particles in the air can be inhaled by anyone in close proximity, thereby increasing the risk of infection,” explained Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a New York City-based double board-certified doctor.

Increase in Tuberculosis Cases at Migrant Shelters

Last month, Chicago health officials reported a “small number” of tuberculosis (TB) cases in certain migrant facilities located within the city. This recent occurrence of tuberculosis outbreaks, both in a California hotel housing homeless individuals and Chicago migrant shelters, raises the urgency to address the preventive measures and adaptable response strategies required to rein in the disease.

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About the Author

Michael Dorgan is an experienced writer contributing to Fox News Digital and Fox Business.