SAN DIEGO–The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency is working with University of San Diego officials to notify people who were possibly exposed to tuberculosis at the school. The period of exposure was from March 28 to June 20.
Free testing for students who have been identified as potentially exposed will take place on a walk-in basis from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 18, 20, 23, 24 and 25 at USD Student Health Center located in Maher Hall, Room 140, 5998 Alcala Park.
“Testing is recommended for all those exposed to assure they are not infected, since they may not have symptoms,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “For anyone infected, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can prevent disease.”
Tuberculosis is transmitted person-to-person through indoor air during prolonged contact with an infectious individual. Most people who are exposed do not become infected.
Symptoms of active tuberculosis include persistent cough, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss. For individuals with symptoms of tuberculosis, or those with compromised immune systems and may not show symptoms, it is important that the person sees their medical provider to rule out tuberculosis. Tuberculosis can be treated and cured with antibiotics.
The number of annual TB cases in San Diego County has decreased since the early 1990s and has stabilized in recent years. There were 258 cases reported in 2016 and 237 in 2017. To date, 90 cases have been reported in 2018.
Individuals who would like more information on this potential exposure should call the USD Student Health Center at (619) 260-4595 or the County of San Diego TB Control Program at (619) 692-8621.