Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious and potentially life-threatening disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. It is a preventable, treatable, and curable disease that can be diagnosed and treated early to prevent it from developing into active TB disease.
In 2023, there were 41 active TB cases reported among DuPage County residents, with numbers varying in past years. The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) plays a key role in preventing and controlling communicable diseases like TB by working closely with healthcare providers and patients.
Individuals with latent TB infection do not spread the disease to others but are at risk of developing active TB if left untreated. Those with weakened immune systems, particularly individuals with HIV, face a higher risk of TB disease. Treating latent TB infection is an effective way to prevent the development of TB disease.
The DCHD’s TB Clinic provides services to DuPage County residents, including testing, diagnosis, and treatment for TB infection and disease. Appointments are necessary for all services, and walk-ins are not accepted. To schedule an appointment, individuals can call (630) 682-7400. For more information on how to prevent the spread of TB and other communicable diseases in DuPage County, residents can visit the DCHD website at https://www.dupagehealth.org/326/Tuberculosis
