TB rates in England continue to increase in 2024

Source: UKHSA, 9 October 2025

New data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows a 13.6% increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases in England in 2024, with 5,490 notifications compared to 4,831 in 2023. Despite the rise, the overall risk to the general population remains low, and TB is both preventable and curable—84.4% of patients complete treatment within 12 months.

The increase reflects global trends and continues to be linked to social determinants such as deprivation and urban living. London recorded the highest regional rate at 20.6 per 100,000. TB remains more prevalent among people born outside the UK, though rates have risen in both UK-born and non-UK-born populations. Drug-resistant TB reached its highest level since 2012, with 2.2% of lab-confirmed cases showing resistance to multiple drugs, requiring more complex treatment.

UKHSA urges early identification and treatment to break transmission chains. A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks may be a symptom—individuals at risk are encouraged to contact their GP. The government is developing a new TB National Action Plan (2026–2031), focusing on prevention, detection, and reducing health inequalities.