Amazon confirms outbreak of Victorian Disease at UK warehouse: Symptoms, risks and treatment of tuberculosis explained

Amazon identified 10 cases of non-contagious TB and is carrying out precautionary screening of employees who may have been exposed (Pic credit: Pexels)

• Amazon confirms 10 non-contagious TB cases at Coventry warehouse in the UK
• GMB union urges temporary shutdown for safety checks and health screenings
• Amazon says public risk is low and screening of employees is ongoing

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Amazon has confirmed multiple cases of tuberculosis (TB) at its Coventry fulfilment centre in the UK, triggering concern among workers’ unions and reigniting debate around workplace health and safety standards in large warehouses.

The bacterial infection, often dubbed a “Victorian disease” because of its prevalence in 19th-century Britain, was detected at the Coventry site, which employs nearly 3,000 people. The GMB union, which represents workers at the facility, has called for an immediate temporary shutdown, arguing that operations should pause until all safety checks and health screenings are completed.

According to company statements, Amazon identified 10 cases of non-contagious TB at the warehouse in September 2025. The company said it is working closely with the National Health Service (NHS) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to carry out precautionary screening of employees who may have been exposed. Amazon has stressed that no new cases have been found since and that the facility continues to operate while screening is underway.

Also Read: World Tuberculosis Day 2025: Symptoms, causes, risk factors of this infectious disease

What is the ‘Victorian disease’?

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that hits the lungs but can spread to other body parts such as lymph nodes, bones, belly, and nervous system, if not treated. People called it a "Victorian" disease because it ran wild in the 1800s when packed living spaces and poor air flow made it easy to catch.

Even though antibiotics can cure TB, doctors say that waiting too long to get help can cause big problems. Finding it and sticking to treatment are key to getting better and stopping it from spreading.

Common signs of tuberculosis

TB symptoms can vary based on whether the infection is active or sleeping, and which part of the body it's in. Doctors say to watch out for these warning signs:

• A cough that won't go away for more than three weeks
• Feeling tired and weak all the time
• Fever and sweating at night
• Not wanting to eat and losing weight for no clear reason
• Pain in the chest or trouble breathing in bad cases

Doctors suggest getting checked out if you keep feeling sick if you might have been exposed to something.

Global TB burden remains high

Even with better treatments, TB remains a big health problem around the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that TB caused more than 1.6 million deaths worldwide in 2021, making it one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally, second only to COVID-19 at the time.

Also Read: Symptoms of drug-resistant TB: Pulmonologist on why early treatment is critical

‘Public health risk remains low’

Addressing concerns, Amazon said it followed guidance from health authorities as soon as the cases were identified. “In line with best practice safety procedures, we immediately followed advice from the NHS and UKHSA and informed all potentially affected employees,” an Amazon spokesperson said.

Dr Roger Gajraj of UKHSA West Midlands said testing is being offered to workers who may have had close contact with affected individuals. He added that the overall risk to the wider public remains low and reiterated that TB is fully treatable with antibiotics.

FAQs on Tuberculosis (TB)

What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body if not treated.

Why is TB called the "Victorian disease"?

TB is called the "Victorian disease" because it was widespread in 19th-century Britain due to crowded living conditions and poor ventilation.

What are the common symptoms of TB?

Common symptoms include a persistent cough, fatigue, night sweats, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and chest pain or difficulty breathing in severe cases.

How is TB treated?

TB is treated with antibiotics. Early detection and adherence to treatment are crucial for recovery and preventing transmission.

What should I do if I suspect I have TB?

If you experience persistent symptoms or have been exposed to TB, seek medical evaluation promptly to ensure early detection and treatment.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.