What is the biggest barrier preventing the eradication of tuberculosis in the United States?

The most significant barrier to eradicating tuberculosis (TB) in the United States is linked to the presence of wildlife reservoirs, which can complicate control efforts. While TB in human populations is primarily spread from person to person, certain animals can harbor and transmit the disease, creating challenges for public health initiatives aimed at eradication. Wildlife reservoirs can lead to sporadic outbreaks and make it more difficult to break the chain of transmission in human populations, as these animals may not be subject to the same control measures as humans.

In contrast, inadequate vaccination, low public awareness, and insufficient funding are also important issues but tend to be more manageable with existing public health strategies. Vaccination can reduce disease incidence, public awareness campaigns can educate communities, and funding can support these initiatives. However, the unique challenge posed by wildlife reservoirs requires targeted approaches that account for complex ecological factors, thus positioning it as a more formidable barrier in the path to eradication.