By Amber Roman
Dec 18, 2023, 17:23 PM EST
In Nevada’s most populous county, authorities have launched an extensive investigation into a case of tuberculosis after receiving reports that a person with an active infection had been on dozens of elementary and secondary school campuses.
The individual’s identity has not been publicly revealed at this time, but he is believed to have visited 26 schools in Clark County, as well as a training center, before receiving the tuberculosis diagnosis, the Associated Press reported.
The Southern Nevada Health District, in collaboration with educational authorities, released a detailed list of affected schools on Friday and simultaneously began notifying those people who may have been in close contact with the infected individual.
Health and educational authorities are working hand in hand to proactively address the situation and contain the possible spread of the disease.
So far, individual notifications are underway at 17 specific campuses where exposure is considered most likely. However, at eight of the affected campuses, no exposures have been identified so far, the AP reported.
Health district officials stressed that not all exposed people will become infected and that even if infection occurs, not everyone will develop active disease.
Tuberculosis is a rapidly contagious disease
Tuberculosis is a contagious disease that spreads more easily in crowds or crowded environments. Symptoms can vary, but health officials have highlighted that a persistent cough that lasts at least two weeks, Chest pain, coughing up blood or phlegm, weakness or fatigue, unexplained weight loss, chills, fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite are common signs of infection.
The educational community and parents have expressed their concern about this shocking news. Authorities are urging those who may have been in contact with the affected individual to Be alert to symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
Additionally, additional prevention measures are being implemented at affected schools to ensure a safe environment for students and staff.
The Clark County Health Department has established temporary testing centers in areas near affected schools to facilitate early detection of possible additional cases. Authorities are working closely with local health professionals to ensure a rapid and effective response to any further developments in this worrying scenario.
As the community comes together to address this situation, authorities are providing educational resources about tuberculosis and preventative measures to follow. Collaboration between health and educational authorities is expected to minimize the impact of this exposure and protect the health of the school community in Clark County.
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