The city of Long Beach is facing a serious health crisis after the detection of 14 tuberculosis cases at a single-room occupancy hotel. Dr. Anissa Davis, the city’s health officer, has declared a public health emergency and officials are working to contain the outbreak and provide care to those affected.

At least 170 more people have likely been exposed and are being tested. The outbreak is isolated to a specific population that faces challenges such as homelessness, housing insecurity, mental illness, substance use, and serious medical conditions. These factors make it difficult for them to access care and put them at higher risk for the disease.

Tuberculosis is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis and usually attacks the lungs but can also affect other organs. It spreads through the air from person to person, especially in small, enclosed spaces. Not everyone who is infected with TB bacteria becomes sick, but symptoms may include a persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, chills, fever or night sweats.

The Long Beach health department has not disclosed the date of the first recorded case of tuberculosis. Public health officials are working hard to control the spread of the disease and ensure that those affected receive the care they need. Anyone who may have been exposed is encouraged to seek testing as soon as possible to prevent further transmission of the disease.