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DuPage County – In observance of World TB Day on March 24, the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) joins global efforts to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB). This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” highlights the need for global collaboration, thoughtful investment, and high-quality care to end TB.
“DCHD plays a vital role in preventing and controlling communicable diseases like TB through surveillance, education, and treatment services,” said Adam Forker, Executive Director, DuPage County Health Department. “We are honored to be recognized as a 2025 CDC U.S. TB Elimination Champion for our contributions to TB prevention and elimination in the U.S.”
TB remains a serious public health issue, despite being preventable, treatable, and curable. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to 13 million people in the U.S. live with active TB. In 2023, there were 9,633 cases of TB reported in the United States.
Locally, 38 active TB cases have been reported among DuPage County residents in 2024. Over the years, the number of TB cases in DuPage County has fluctuated, ranging from 23 cases in 2011 to a peak of 50 cases in 2018.
TB is an airborne, contagious disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing, speaking, or singing, often affecting close contacts like family or coworkers. While latent TB isn’t contagious, 5-10% of cases can develop into active TB if untreated, with half occurring within two years. Those with weakened immune systems, especially individuals with HIV, face a significantly higher risk.
DCHD’s TB Clinic in Wheaton, provides a wide range of essential services to residents of DuPage County. The clinic offers comprehensive evaluations and treatment and offers education, guidance, and resources for healthcare providers and the community on TB. Additionally, the clinic manages all active TB cases in the county, conducts contact investigations, and provides directly observed therapy (DOT) to ensure effective treatment.
DCHD’s TB Clinic is open to county residents. Services, including testing, diagnosis, and treatment for TB infection and disease, are available by appointment only, with no walk-ins accepted. To schedule an appointment, please call (630) 682-7400. For further information, visit https://www.dupagehealth.org/326/Tuberculosis.