A History of Tuberculosis in Indiana & Kentucky

Living in the tri-state area, the word "tuberculosis" instantly makes me think of Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, KY. It is infamously known as a once-thriving TB hospital that was a self-sufficient community.

The Rise of Tuberculosis in the Early 1900s

Tuberculosis, or "consumption," caused by bacteria, was one of the leading causes of death in the early 1900s. According to Kentucky Historic Institutions, Waverly Hills officially opened on July 26, 1910.  With the rapid increase in TB cases, the original hospital quickly reached capacity and was expanded upon. The property was built high on a hill with large windows to allow fresh air to circulate, as fresh air was thought to be crucial in treating the disease.

What Does Tuberculosis Do?

TB primarily affects the lungs, leading to a slow and agonizing death. Because it’s highly infectious, those with the disease had to be isolated from society and provided with specialized care.

It wasn’t until the discovery of the antibiotic Streptomycin in 1943 that there was finally an effective way to combat TB. Patients at Waverly Hills began receiving this lifesaving treatment in 1949.

Read More: Alcohol is Useless Against This Common Virus 

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Waverly Hills Today: A Paranormal Tourist Attraction

Waverly Hills eventually closed as a medical facility but has since reopened as a paranormal tourist attraction. Visitors often report that the infamous "body chutes" are especially gruesome. These chutes were used to discreetly remove bodies when deaths outpaced the hospital's ability to treat patients.

Tuberculosis: Not Just a Thing of the Past

Growing up, I thought of TB as one of those "old-timey" diseases—like smallpox or polio—that no one got anymore. You only had to worry about dying on it if you played the Oregon Trail game. But that was a misconception. It wasn’t until I applied for a job that required a TB test that I realized tuberculosis is still around—just better managed with vaccinations and antibiotics.

A Modern TB Outbreak in Kansas

Recently, it was reported that there is a TB outbreak in Kansas. Who had that on their 2025 bingo card? Not me! According to The New York Times, as of last Friday, 67 people were being treated for active TB cases, while 79 others in two counties were carrying dormant TB. Sadly, it was reported that some people passed away. Fortunately, the risk of contracting TB in the general population remains "very low."

Tuberculosis in Indiana and Kentucky

We’re not immune to TB here in Indiana and Kentucky, either. The CDC reports:

• In 2022: Indiana had 99 cases, and Kentucky had 70.
• In 2023: Indiana jumped up to 130 cases, while Kentucky went up to 75.

When you consider the population of these states, the numbers aren’t as alarming—but it’s still worth staying informed.

How to Stay Prepared for TB

How is Tuberculosis Transmitted?

TB spreads through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sings.

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

According to the CDC, symptoms of active TB include:

• A bad cough lasting three weeks or more
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm from deep inside the lungs)

For dormant TB, symptoms may include feeling generally unwell—fatigue, body aches, fever, etc.

What Should You Do if You Suspect TB?

If you think you might have TB, the best course of action is to talk to your doctor right away and get tested. From there, they can recommend the appropriate treatment.

Otherwise, don't worry so much! Go play some Oregon Trail and chill out.