Tuberculosis (TB) cases are increasing in Switzerland, largely driven by arrivals from regions where the disease is more common, according to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). As of early 2025, 475 cases have been reported, marking a 26% increase compared to 376 and 375 cases in the same period over the past two years. The rise in cases does not affect people born in Switzerland.
The FOPH highlighted that young immigrants are the most affected group, while among Swiss-born individuals, TB mainly occurs in the elderly. Many of these cases trace back to infections contracted in youth, when tuberculosis was more widespread in the country. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, releasing droplets that others inhale. Infection typically requires prolonged exposure in the same space as the sick individual.
Although a vaccine exists, it is not available in Switzerland. The FOPH emphasized that tuberculosis can be effectively treated with a course of specialized antibiotics lasting several months. Without treatment, however, the disease can often be fatal.
