Illinois hits record low in new TB cases

SPRINGFIELD -- The state of Illinois has hit a record low when it comes to the number of new tuberculosis cases.

Illinois health officials say 521 active cases of TB were reported in the state last year. That's a drop from the 569 cases reported in 2006, which had matched the previous record low set in 2004.

Illinois does, however, rank fifth highest in tuberculosis cases.

State Public Health Director Damon Arnold says everyone needs to be aware of the risks of TB, especially since the number of drug-resistant cases have been increasing.

The governor has proclaimed it World TB Day in Illinois to raise awareness of the disease.