Andorra Reports Zero Active TB Cases in 2025, Detects Seven Latent Infections

Andorra recorded zero active tuberculosis cases in 2025 after authorities ruled out a single suspicion, while identifying seven latent infections, according to data released Tuesday for World Tuberculosis Day on March 24.

The seven cases—five in women and two in men, aged 55 to 82 with an average of 64—involved asymptomatic, non-contagious presence of the bacteria. Five were detected in internal medicine services and two in pulmonology. Health officials attributed three to immunosuppressant treatments, three to biologic therapies for dermatological conditions, and one to biologic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. All receive follow-up through the Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Programme (PPCTA), including tests, specialist visits, X-rays, and preventive measures, with emphasis on those at higher risk.

This marks a continued decline in incidence. The 2021-2025 rate is 2.6 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the second-lowest on record after 2018-2022's 2.5. Earlier periods showed higher figures, including 3.5 for 2019-2023 and 3.2 for 2020-2024. Rates in the early 2000s ranged from 9.9 (2000-2004) to 6 (2007-2011), peaking before a steady drop. Over the past three years, four active cases were confirmed, with two each in 2021 and 2022.

From 1997 to 2025, 227 suspicions yielded 197 confirmations (88.3%), comprising 170 autochthonous cases among residents and 27 imported among non-residents. Between 2000 and 2024, most cases (58) occurred in the 35-54 age group (38 men, 20 women), followed by 15-34 (33: 18 men, 15 women), 55-74 (27: 17 men, 10 women), over 74 (13: 10 men, 3 women), and under 14 (2: 1 man, 1 woman). Of 154 new autochthonous cases, eight involved prior tuberculosis treatment.

These low rates place Andorra among Europe's lowest-incidence countries, meeting WHO goals for middle- and high-income nations of under 100 cases per 100,000. The PPCTA ensures universal access to diagnostics, treatment, contact tracing, and latent infection management to curb future risks. Tuberculosis remains a notifiable disease, prompting immediate protocols upon suspicion.