Burden in Europe

The number of notified TB cases increased in Europe from 242,309 in 1990 to 381,975 in 1999 (58% increase).

Increase in incidence

In 12 European countries, the number of cases more than doubled between 1990 and 1998.

A few countries have low rates

Only nine European countries (Denmark, Iceland, Italy, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, San Marino, and Sweden) showed a case notification rate of less than 10 per 100,000 from 1990–1998.

Mortality

Mortality rates range from 0.1 per 100,000 in the Netherlands to 38 per 100,000 in Kazakhstan.
The highest mortality rates are found in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

Economic impact

The impact of TB on the economy is substantial, especially in high-incidence countries.
TB-related costs are approximately €2.1 billion annually in Europe.

Migration and a rise in incidence

Due to increased migration, the spread of resistant TB bacteria throughout
Europe is expected in the next few years.