Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB detection and mortality in 2020
Overview
Provisional data compiled by the World Health Organization (WHO) from 84 countries indicates that an estimated 1.4 million fewer people received care for tuberculosis (TB) in 2020 than in 2019 - a reduction of 21% from 2019. WHO estimates that these COVID-19 related disruptions in access to TB care could cause an additional half a million TB deaths. TB remains one of the world’s top infectious killers.
Since early 2020, when the novel coronavirus outbreak (2019-nCoV) was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, the WHO Global TB Programme with Regional and Country Offices has been undertaking real-time monitoring of the COVID-19 pandemic including on TB notifications and service delivery. It has also provided guidance and technical support to countries and supported the procurement of drugs and diagnostics. WHO modelling and analysis on the impactofCOVID-19 was undertaken to drive action. WHO is working with countries, partners and civil society to ensure continuityofessential TB services and to learn lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen preparedness and build-back stronger.