A recent tuberculosis outbreak at a hotel in Long Beach has prompted the health department to declare a public health emergency. While the City Council still needs to confirm this decision, the situation is concerning.
As of Monday, April 29, Long Beach has reported 14 confirmed cases of tuberculosis among individuals associated with a single room occupancy hotel. Additionally, around 170 people are believed to have been exposed to the bacteria. Despite this, the overall risk to the public is considered low.
Efforts are underway to notify and assist those who were staying at the hotel during the outbreak or may have been exposed. However, due to privacy concerns, the name and location of the hotel have not been disclosed.
Determining the outbreak’s origin has proven challenging due to tuberculosis’s prolonged symptomatic period. Dr. Anissa Davis, the City Health Officer, emphasized this difficulty in pinpointing the source.
In response to the outbreak, the health department has declared a public health emergency to access additional resources for containment efforts. The affected population, which includes individuals facing homelessness, mental illness, and other health challenges, requires specialized care.
Of the 14 patients identified, nine have been hospitalized, and sadly, one has died. Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spreads through the air, but unlike COVID-19, it requires prolonged exposure for transmission.
People with latent tuberculosis infection may not show symptoms but can still be treated to prevent the disease from becoming active. Only individuals with active tuberculosis can spread the bacteria, typically exhibiting symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, and fatigue.
Treatment is available for tuberculosis, but vulnerable individuals may face more severe cases. California has seen a steady increase in tuberculosis cases in recent years, highlighting the importance of proactive public health measures.
The Long Beach health department’s TB Control Program is actively addressing the outbreak, providing treatment, housing, and support services. Efforts include identifying and screening individuals exposed to the disease to prevent further transmission.
The public health emergency declaration will expedite resource allocation and enable swift action to contain the outbreak. This includes securing additional funding from state and federal governments and raising awareness within the community.
The City Council will review and potentially ratify the declaration at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, May 7, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
