The lung infection primarily affects people with immune systems weakened by alcohol and drug dependence, rough sleeping or living in damp overcrowded accommodation. “The important thing to remember is that TB is treatable with medicine and no-one should feel reluctant about asking for help. “We see a lot of latent cases, where outwardly healthy people emigrate to the UK without realising they are carrying TB. Historical note: Mount Vernon Hospital in Northwood offered a breath of fresh air for Londoners recovering from the White Plague. TB receded with advances in public health and medical care and was replaced by the threat of cancer.

Source: The Times February 25, 2026 17:29 UTC