In recognition of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) is emphasizing the ongoing public health challenge posed by tuberculosis (TB) in the state. The department notes that in 2024, Hawaiʻi reported 116 cases of active TB disease, a rate nearly three times higher than the national average.
While TB case rates declined from 2015 to 2020, there has been an increase since then both locally and globally. A significant outbreak in Kansas starting in 2024 underscores how easily TB can reemerge within communities. The DOH stresses the importance of early identification and treatment to protect individuals and prevent community transmission.
Symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough lasting three weeks or more, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and fatigue. People experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek evaluation from their healthcare provider or visit a DOH TB clinic for testing. Effective oral medications are available to treat TB infection before it develops into its more severe form.
The DOH remains committed to protecting Hawaiʻi's population against infectious diseases like TB by maintaining a healthy workforce. "Testing to obtain a TB clearance is available for free at 17 DOH locations statewide," says the department. Certain industries require employees to have TB clearances as part of efforts to safeguard workers and those they care for.
Collaboration with public and private partners helps promote community-wide TB testing and identify individuals at high risk for developing infectious TB. Preventative treatment is encouraged for those who would benefit most.
Through its Tuberculosis Control Program within the Communicable Disease and Public Health Nursing Division, the DOH aims to reduce tuberculosis incidence by offering prevention, detection, treatment, and educational services at no cost. For further details about tuberculosis or program services, individuals can call 808-832-5731 or visit https://health.hawaii.gov/tb/.