Tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas becomes largest in US since 1950s
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Kansas Battles TB Outbreak, CDC Disputes Record Claims
Above: A medical worker shows an x-ray result during a tuberculosis screening at a health center in Valenzuela, Philippines, on March 14, 2024. Image copyright: Jam Sta Rosa/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
While reports of tuberculosis are always unsettling, local and federal authorities have it under control. Not only have health officials stated that the public risk remains "very low," but those who unfortunately contract the illness will be able to receive treatment with antibiotics.
Narrative B
While immediate attention should be focused on state- and national-level prevention, detection, and treatment, immigration cannot be left out of the equation. Immigrants, especially those coming from developing nations, must be screened for such diseases before they enter to ensure their health and the health of the existing American population.