Amazon has confirmed an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) at its fulfillment center in Coventry, United Kingdom, prompting expanded health screenings and worker safety concerns. Health authorities and labor groups have responded as testing continues and infection control measures are implemented.
Amazon’s fulfillment center in Coventry, which employs around 2,000–3,000 workers, reported multiple cases of tuberculosis at the site. According to company statements, 10 employees tested positive in late 2025, and these cases were classified as latent TB, meaning the individuals were infected with the bacteria but not contagious at the time of detection.
The company is working with the National Health Service (NHS) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to conduct expanded screening programs for workers who may have been exposed as a precaution. Amazon reports no new cases since the initial identification and says that all employees potentially affected have been notified.
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It most commonly affects the lungs but can involve other organs. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that TB remains a leading infectious cause of death globally, despite being preventable and treatable with appropriate antibiotics and public health measures.
Transmission: TB is typically spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
Latent vs. Active TB:
Latent TB means the bacteria are present but not causing illness or contagiousness.
Active TB produces symptoms and can be transmitted to others.
Symptoms: Common signs include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, night sweats, fever, fati1gue, and unexplained weight loss.
Treatment: TB can be treated with a course of antibiotics over several months when diagnosed early.
Health officials from the UKHSA West Midlands have stated that those affected by TB are responding well to treatment and no longer pose a risk of transmitting the disease to others. Testing is being offered to staff who had close contact with confirmed cases.
Amazon has maintained that it followed guidance from public health experts and continues operations while ensuring health screening and precautionary measures are implemented. The company’s statement emphasizes that safety procedures are being followed in collaboration with the NHS and public health agencies.
The GMB Union, representing workers at the site, has urged Amazon to temporarily close the warehouse and place employees on full paid medical leave until comprehensive infection control is verified. The union expressed concerns about workplace safety given the close proximity of staff and the essential nature of proper TB mitigation.
This union response reflects broader concerns about occupational health in large, densely staffed workplaces during infectious disease events. Public health strategy typically involves isolating contagious individuals and ensuring screening and treatment to prevent further spread.
Tuberculosis incidence has been increasing in recent years in England, with health authorities reporting annual rises in case notifications. This trend has been noted in broader public health planning, including the UKHSA’s call for evidence to support new tuberculosis action plans running from 2026 to 2031.
While England is still classified as a low-incidence country, these increases highlight ongoing public health challenges in controlling TB. Screening, early diagnosis, and treatment are key to preventing outbreaks and managing latent infections before they become active.
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