By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–County officials are investigating a tuberculosis (TB) exposure linked to St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Paradise Hills, San Diego Tuberculosis Control Program confirmed.
The potential exposure occurred at 10 a.m. Sunday services between September 22 and December 1, 2024. The County is working closely with church leadership to notify parishioners and visitors who may have been present during that time.
According to county officials, the case involves a strain of TB that is resistant to rifampin, a primary drug used in the treatment of tuberculosis. This resistance could complicate standard preventive treatments typically administered following exposure.
“TB can be difficult to diagnose, and people may remain contagious for months before symptoms become clear,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, the County’s interim public health officer. “That’s why identifying and notifying those who may have been exposed is critical.”
There is currently no indication that this case is connected to previously announced TB exposures in the region. Health officials emphasized that while drug-resistant TB is less common, it does not appear that the community is facing a broader outbreak.
Tuberculosis is an airborne disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, speaks, sings, or breathes. People with prolonged indoor contact with someone who has active TB are at the highest risk.
Symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. However, many people infected with TB may not experience symptoms immediately. This condition, known as latent TB infection, can later develop into active disease if left untreated.
“Blood and skin tests are reliable tools for detecting TB infection,” said Dr. Kadakia. “We urge anyone who believes they may have been exposed, or who is showing symptoms, to contact the County TB Control Program.”
Individuals who test positive for TB but do not have symptoms should undergo a chest X-ray to rule out active disease. Preventive treatment is important for those with latent infections, as it can prevent the illness from developing in the future.
Due to the involvement of a rifampin-resistant strain, the County advises both individuals and their healthcare providers to consult with the TB Control Program at (619) 692-8621 for tailored treatment recommendations.
San Diego County has seen a gradual rise in TB cases since 2020. After reporting 193 cases in 2020, the number increased to 201 in 2021, 208 in 2022, and 242 in 2023. In 2024, 247 active TB cases have already been reported.
It is estimated that around 175,000 people in San Diego County have latent TB infections. Of these, approximately 5 to 10 percent may develop active TB if not treated.
