A mother from Coventry has issued a stark warning to other parents after her four-year-old son was diagnosed with tuberculosis, a disease often associated with the Victorian era. Megan West's son, Elliot, began experiencing night sweats and weight loss before his diagnosis, highlighting the need for awareness of the infection's signs.
Alarming Rise in Tuberculosis Cases
New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal a concerning trend. In 2024, there were 5,490 notifications of tuberculosis (TB) in England. This marks a significant 13% increase – equivalent to more than 600 additional cases – from the 4,831 notifications recorded in 2023. The surge means the disease, sometimes dubbed a 'Victorian superbug', is close to losing its 'low-incidence' status in the country.
Elliot's Fight with TB: A Mother's Vigilance
Megan West, a stay-at-home mother from Coventry in the West Midlands, feared for her son's life when doctors said he needed spinal fusion surgery last year. Elliot first had difficulty walking, with symptoms initially dismissed by doctors as a viral infection or attention-seeking behaviour following the arrival of a baby sister.
However, in June 2025, after Elliot complained his legs were 'not working', Megan took him to Coventry Hospital. An X-ray ultimately revealed lymph nodes in the child's lungs, leading to the tuberculosis diagnosis. Thankfully, Elliot is now on the mend. Megan urges all parents: "Listen to your child and push when you don't feel things are right."
Recognising the Symptoms of Tuberculosis
The NHS states that tuberculosis symptoms usually develop gradually. The disease, which primarily affects the lungs, is treatable with antibiotics but can become serious without treatment. A vaccine is available for some at-risk groups.
Common symptoms of active TB include:
- A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, potentially with phlegm or blood.
- Feeling unusually tired or exhausted.
- Experiencing a high temperature or severe night sweats.
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
- A general feeling of being unwell.
In children, difficulty gaining weight or growing properly can also be a sign.
When TB Spreads Beyond the Lungs
If tuberculosis spreads to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, bones, or brain, additional symptoms may occur. These can include swollen glands, body aches, painful or swollen joints, abdominal pain, headaches, confusion, a stiff neck, or a rash. It is also possible to have 'latent TB', where the bacteria are present but cause no symptoms.
The story of Elliot West serves as a crucial reminder of this disease's presence in modern Britain. With cases rising, recognising the signs of tuberculosis – from a long-lasting cough to unexplained weight loss – is more important than ever for public health.
