On March 24, 2025, PSV Eindhoven made a significant health announcement: one of its players has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis. The club later identified the player as Lucas Pérez, although it initially withheld his name for privacy reasons. The situation arises just six days before a crucial match against Ajax, raising concerns not only about the player's health but also about team dynamics.
PSV confirmed that Pérez is "doing well under the circumstances" and is receiving necessary medical treatment. Following standard protocols, the club immediately notified the public health authority in the region, GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, and began contact tracing to monitor potential exposure among teammates and staff. Fortunately, the club stated there are currently no indications of additional infections within the player's environment.
Tuberculosis, commonly referred to as TB, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Specifically concerning is the fact that when the disease is active, as in Pérez's case, it can easily transmit to those nearby. However, health experts, including long specialist Pascal Wielders of GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, emphasized that the risk of further infection is low, particularly in outdoor settings. "The risk of infection for people in the patient’s environment is limited," Wielders stated. He reassured the public that outdoor scenarios pose no risk if contagion protocols are followed.
The timeline of events indicates that Pérez contracted tuberculosis while abroad, with symptoms surfacing last weekend. Despite the diagnosis, there are hopes for his recovery. Nonetheless, he is expected to remain out of play for a significant period, with estimates suggesting he could be sidelined for a minimum of three to four weeks due to treatment and recovery. This timeline, combined with the fast-approaching end of the season, which wraps up on May 18, 2025, casts doubt on his return to the pitch this season.
The announcement coincidences with World Tuberculosis Day, a poignant reminder of the ongoing health battle against this infectious disease. The rising number of tuberculosis cases across Europe—reported at 10 percent increases among young people in 2023—adds urgency to monitoring and response strategies such as those implemented by PSV. In the Netherlands, an increase to approximately 710 diagnosed cases was recorded last year, indicating a slight uptick from previous years.
Health officials recommend vaccination against TB for at-risk populations, particularly for children from high-prevalence countries. Yet, the strain on healthcare systems underscores why proactive measures, including early detection and antibiotic treatment remain critical. Patients undergoing treatment typically require a significant commitment, often taking medication for six months or more to eradicate the bacteria completely and prevent development of drug-resistant strains.
For now, PSV must navigate the upcoming matches while ensuring that the health protocols remain robust to prevent further incidents. After the news of the tuberculosis case came to light, the club stated that it will closely monitor all players and staff in the immediate environment of the infected individual. The club indicated that it would adhere to the necessary protocols to ensure everyone’s safety, reinforcing its commitment to managing the situation carefully.
Despite this setback, PSV aims to maintain focus on their performance in the Eredivisie. The club maintains that this health issue will not significantly alter its approach to the game against Ajax. "The tuberculosis case does not change anything in a sporting sense for the upcoming match against Ajax," a spokesperson affirmed. However, with significant uncertainties about the affected player’s recovery time and prognosis, this situation will undoubtedly linger over the team as they prepare for one of the most vital matches of the season.
As fans and stakeholders await further updates, PSV Eindhoven is expected to provide ongoing communication about Pérez’s condition, treatment progression, and any potential impact on his athletic future. Meanwhile, the lingering presence of tuberculosis in communities worldwide advocates for heightened awareness and continued investment in health infrastructure to ensure that such infections are treated efficiently and effectively.
