Health officials in Maine have confirmed three active tuberculosis (TB) cases in Portland, but they emphasized that there is no outbreak. The cases are not genetically linked, and contact tracing is currently underway to ensure public safety.
Some reports recently claimed that multiple TB cases were linked to a migrant shelter in Portland. However, officials from the Maine CDC and MaineHealth quickly dismissed these claims as false. “A TB outbreak, by definition, requires multiple genetically linked cases,” said Lindsay Hammes, spokesperson for the Maine CDC.
“The three active cases we are monitoring do not meet that threshold.” Officials also confirmed that the TB screening event in Portland was part of routine prevention efforts, not a response to an outbreak.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is a serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, TB can also impact other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, or brain. The disease spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings.
There are two main types of TB:
- Latent TB: The bacteria remain in the body but are inactive. Individuals do not feel sick and cannot transmit the infection to others.
- Active TB: The bacteria are active, causing noticeable symptoms, and can be transmitted to others.
Common Symptoms of Active TB:
- Persistent cough, sometimes with blood or mucus
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Treatment:
TB is treatable with antibiotics. It is crucial to complete the full course of medication to eliminate the bacteria entirely and prevent the development of drug-resistant TB. Early detection greatly increases the chances of a full recovery.
Maine Confirms TB Cases, Debunks Outbreak Rumors
Last week, rumors circulated suggesting that more than 20 TB cases were linked to Portland’s migrant shelter. Maine’s public health agencies quickly clarified that these claims were inaccurate.
According to Dr. Dora Mills of MaineHealth, “TB is serious, but it spreads much less easily than influenza or COVID-19. We continue to monitor cases closely to protect public health.”
While TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease—causing over 1.2 million deaths globally in 2022 according to the World Health Organization—it is less contagious than many common respiratory illnesses, especially in well-ventilated areas.
In Maine, a total of 28 TB cases have been reported in 2025, which is slightly higher than in previous years. Despite the increase, health officials stress that this does not constitute an outbreak. Nationwide, TB cases have been gradually rising since 2021, following a decline during the pandemic.
How to Protect Yourself from TB
TB is a serious but treatable disease. Awareness, early detection, and proper treatment are essential to prevent the spread and ensure a full recovery. Maine’s health agencies continue to monitor all cases carefully, providing guidance and reassurance to residents.
Maine Tuberculosis Cases: FAQ
Q1: How many active Tuberculosis cases have been reported in Maine?
A: There are three active Tuberculosis cases in Portland, Maine.
Q2: Is there a tuberculosis outbreak in Portland?
A: No. Health officials confirmed that there is no outbreak. The cases are not linked.
Q3: Are the TB cases linked to a migrant shelter?
A: No. Reports saying the shelter is linked to TB cases are false.
Q4: What is tuberculosis (TB) and how does it spread?
A: TB is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when a sick person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings.
Q5: What are the symptoms of active TB?
A: Common symptoms include:
- Long-lasting cough (sometimes with blood)
- Chest pain
- Fever or night sweats
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
Q6: How is TB treated and prevented?
A: TB is treated with antibiotics. It is important to finish the full course of medicine. Early detection and awareness help prevent the disease from spreading.
Q7: How serious is TB compared to other infectious diseases?
A: TB is serious but less contagious than flu or COVID-19. It can be fully treated if caught early.
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