Delaware's Division of Public Health and Indian River School District is contacting a small number of people who may have been exposed to an individual with active tuberculosis while being transported to and from the Howard T. Ennis School in Georgetown.
The health department will offer free screenings and treatment to all potentially exposed parties, if necessary.
"We have reached out to the small number of individuals who need testing. If someone does not hear from us by letter or phone, they have no reason to get tested," said Karyl Rattay, MD, director of the DPH. "This situation is a good reminder that TB is still active in our community and it's important to test those who may be at risk for the disease."
TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Infection occurs when someone with active TB transmits the bacteria to another person via coughing, speaking or singing. The illness can be deadly if left untreated, according to the CDC.
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