World Tuberculosis Day: How Hawaiʻi Can Stay Healthy Through Public Health Vigilance | Maui Now

The Hawai ʻi Department of Health is spotlighting World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, 2025. This day reminds us about the serious health threat tuberculosis (TB) still poses in our state.

In 2024, Hawai ʻi recorded 116 active TB cases. This rate is nearly three times higher than the national average. While the numbers had dropped from 2015 to 2020, they have risen again since the pandemic began. This trend is not just local; it’s happening worldwide. Experts note that outbreaks, like the significant one in Kansas in 2024, show how quickly TB can spread in communities. Early detection and treatment are vital; they help protect individuals and limit the spread to others.

Recognizing the signs of TB is crucial for timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• A cough lasting three weeks or longer
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult their doctor or get a TB test at a local DOH clinic. Simple antibiotic medications can treat TB infection before it becomes serious and contagious.

To safeguard its workforce, Hawai ʻi mandates TB clearance for employees in specific industries. Free TB testing is available at various DOH sites across the state.

The DOH teams up with public and private organizations to boost community testing, identify those at higher risk, and encourage preventive measures. High-risk groups include:

• People from areas with high TB rates.
• Residents of shelters or correctional facilities.
• Individuals with chronic health issues, such as diabetes or weakened immune systems.

The DOH TB Control Program aims to end TB transmission and prevent serious health impacts in the community. Their mission aligns with global efforts to eliminate TB as a public health threat.

For those in Hawai ʻi, free examinations and treatment opportunities are available. It’s essential to act quickly for both personal health and the community’s well-being.

For additional information, visit Hawai ʻi Department of Health TB resources.

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