Tuberculosis case discovered in Union County high school student; hundreds could be exposed: Health Department

MONROE, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — Nearly 300 people were potentially exposed to a case of tuberculosis in Union County recently, county officials announced.

The Union County Public Health Department is investigating a case of active TB involving a student at Porter Ridge High School in Indian Trail. The student is following appropriate protocol for active cases.

Health officials say at least 270 individuals may have been in contact with the student and are encouraged to get tested. TB is a bacterial disease primarily affecting the lungs. It can spread through the air when a person with active TB disease coughs, sneezes, sings or talks.

“With any tuberculosis investigation, we must include a time period that starts three months before the individual developed symptoms,” health officials explained.

Public Health has mailed letters to the parents of all those who may have been exposed. Early detection is critical for effective management of TB exposure. Public Health is providing testing at no cost for these contacts at Union County Human Services (2330 Concord Ave., Monroe). Anyone who tests positive may receive further support and medication at no cost.

“While the community should be aware of this investigation, there is no immediate risk of health problems related to this case, and there is no further risk of exposure at this time,” said Dennis Joyner, Public Health director, in a statement.

The county said that those who inhale the bacteria may develop latent TB, which can become active TB disease if untreated. Approximately 10% of those with latent TB will develop the disease in their lifetime, while the remaining 90% carry the bacteria without symptoms.

In Union County, there are about four cases of tuberculosis confirmed each year. For additional information on TB, click here.

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