TB (Tuberculosis) cases among children are increasing in Gujarat, with 19,482 children diagnosed with TB in the past three years.

In 2024, an average of 15 TB cases were reported daily in Gujarat.

In 2022, 7,173 cases were registered, followed by 6,722 cases in 2023 and 5,587 cases in 2024. The number of cases has been declining over the years in Gujarat.

In 2024, Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of TB cases in the country, with 71,761 cases, followed by Bihar 20,016, Madhya Pradesh 11,991, Maharashtra 10,976, and Delhi (10,628).

Across India, 1.35 lakh TB cases in children were reported in 2022, 1.43 lakh in 2023, and 1.41 lakh in 2024.

To curb TB cases among children, measures such as the expansion of the Universal Immunisation Program, direct benefit transfers of ₹500 per month to children with TB, and increased screening efforts have been implemented.

Causes of TB in Children

Tuberculosis (TB) in children is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium, which spreads through airborne droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Those with active lung TB are the primary source of transmission.

Why Children Are at Higher Risk

Weaker immune systems  Since children's immune defenses are still developing, they are more vulnerable to TB infections.

Faster disease progression  Compared to adults, children require a smaller number of TB bacteria to develop the disease.

Higher risk of extrapulmonary TB  TB in children often affects organs beyond the lungs, such as the brain, bones, and lymph nodes.