Osaka City reports tuberculosis outbreak among 12 people

An outbreak of tuberculosis has been confirmed among 12 individuals associated with a Japanese language education institution in Osaka City. Following the diagnosis of a woman in her 20s in July, health authorities conducted epidemiological investigations and contact tracing.

As of September 24, the investigation identified 11 additional people infected, including two others in their 20s who have developed the disease. While three people in total have manifested symptoms, their conditions are reported as mild and not life-threatening. The nine remaining infected individuals are scheduled to begin preventive medication.

The initial patient had reportedly experienced coughing and phlegm since November of last year, with symptoms worsening in June. Osaka City health officials have urged the public to undergo annual tuberculosis screenings and to seek medical attention if symptoms such as persistent coughing for more than two weeks, slight fever, or fatigue occur.