Global Overview of Tuberculosis in Humans and Animals in the Period 2013 - 2022 and Public Health Protection

Tuberculosis is a zoonosis that ranks among the leading causes of death and disability. Given the increasing prevalence of the disease worldwide, this study analyzes available data on Tuberculosis case prevalence in humans and animals, examines the regulatory frameworks for its control, and synthesizes evidence to formulate recommendations for improving prevention and control strategies.

This paper synthesizes surveillance data on tuberculosis in humans and domestic animals from Bulgaria, the European Union, and global sources for the period 2013-2022, alongside an analysis of relevant European and international regulatory frameworks. Official reports from EFSA, ECDC, WHO, and WAHIS were examined using descriptive statistical methods to identify trends, regional differences, and challenges in disease control.

The study describes a 27% increase in reported human cases worldwide, reaching record levels, excluding Europe and the USA, and increased total outbreaks in all regions - Asia (74%), Europe (61%), the Americas (30%), and Africa (10%).

With thousands of human deaths and huge economic losses in many countries, regardless of their stage of development, tuberculosis remains a major transboundary threat to public health. Implementation of surveillance and various preventive measures against the disease is of paramount importance for protecting public health.

The global crisis, associated with the ongoing threat of increasing infections in animals and humans worldwide, requires improving the effectiveness of international intersectoral cooperation, veterinary and health systems for disease surveillance and control, as well as capacity building to conduct training and educational campaigns.