Amazon has confirmed an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB), sometimes described as a 'Victorian disease,' at its flagship fulfilment centre in Coventry. The revelation has triggered a fierce confrontation with the GMB union, which is calling for the immediate temporary closure of the facility to prevent a wider public health crisis.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the NHS have launched an expanded screening programme at the site after 10 workers tested positive for latent TB late last year. While latent TB is non-contagious, it can develop into an active, infectious state if left untreated. The current screening follows an initial targeted programme in September 2025, which was prompted by a 'handful' of active, contagious cases among the workforce, according to The Guardian.
