Health officials say there’s no further risk of exposure for the public.
UNION COUNTY, N.C. — A Porter Ridge High School student tested positive for tuberculosis and hundreds of people may have been exposed, health officials said.
At least 270 people may have been exposed, but Union County health officials say there is no further risk of exposure. Union County Public Health said the teen is following protocol for active tuberculosis cases.
Health officials sent letters to the parents of all children who may have been exposed, urging them to have their kids tested. The county is offering free tuberculosis testing for anyone who may have been exposed at Union County Human Services on Concord Avenue in Monroe.
“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,” Health Director Dennis Joyner said. “Communicable disease investigation is a regular activity for Public Health and our team is well-prepared to respond to situations like this to prevent further spread. We urge parents to have their children tested if they have been identified as close contacts.”
Tuberculosis is a bacterial disease that primarily affects the lungs. It can spread through the air through coughing, sneezing and breathing. Officials say there are about four confirmed cases of tuberculosis in Union County each year.
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