Northern Ireland recorded 81 active tuberculosis cases in 2025, down from 87 in 2024, 78 in 2023 and 69 in 2022. The Public Health Agency marked World TB Day on 24 March by urging residents to watch for symptoms such as prolonged cough, fever and unexplained weight loss.

Dr Jillian Johnston, PHA consultant in health protection, stated TB spreads through air droplets from infectious lung cases via coughing, sneezing, talking or singing. She advised contacting a GP promptly if symptoms appear. Higher risks apply to those near infectious individuals, with immune-weakening conditions, social factors or travel from high-prevalence areas.

Six bovine TB cases occurred in Northern Ireland in 2025, mainly affecting farmers and agricultural workers. Precautions include frequent handwashing, avoiding food in animal areas, covering wounds and steering clear of unpasteurised milk.

Andy Spence, 55, from Glenavy, received a TB diagnosis in June 2025 after symptoms led to tests at Ulster Hospital. X-rays showed a lung shadow and lymph node tests confirmed TB cells. He underwent months of antibiotics from Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust teams.

Spence credited hospital staff and South Eastern Trust nurses for support that restored his mobility. TB Prevention Nurse Amanda McCormack of South Eastern Trust noted the disease affects lungs or other body parts and is curable with full treatment courses. She listed signs including cough over three weeks, night sweats and swollen lumps.