The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) recognizes World TB Day, to commemorate the date in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacillus that causes tuberculosis (TB). World TB Day is a reminder that Tuberculosis infections are still prevalent in many countries and could affect anybody.

In Pinellas County, the number of TB cases in 2015 dropped to 14 from 25 the year before. Statewide in 2015, 602 tuberculosis cases were reported in Florida representing a 1.2 percent increase in cases since 2014 (595), however the number of cases have declined by almost 29 percent since 2010.

“Even though we have seen a decrease in the number of local cases, we must still remain vigilant,” said Dr. Ulyee Choe, DOH-Pinellas’ director. “Our dedicated team of professionals at the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County work diligently every day to identify and eliminate TB.”

The theme of World TB Day 2016 is “Unite to End TB”. The CDC and its domestic and international partners, including the National TB Controllers Association, Stop TB USA, and the global Stop TB Partnership are working together to eliminate this deadly disease.

Through its statewide TB program and its support of the Florida System of Tuberculosis Care, the department is making significant strides towards its goal to eliminate TB in the state. Cases of TB in Florida have gone down by 42 percent from 1,038 cases in 2006 to 602 in 2015. In the past year, the department has implemented improved testing and treatment technologies, making it easier for clients to successfully complete therapy.

For information about DOH-Pinellas, go to www.PinellasHealth.com or call (727) 824-6900.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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