Crisp County Health Department Investigates Possible TB Exposure at Crisp County High School

On May 11, 2011, the health department administered TB skin tests to students and staff of the school who may have been at risk of TB exposure. Those students and faculty that may have been at risk of exposure received a letter from the school and public health notifying them to get tested. This investigation is necessary because the health department received a report of a person being diagnosed with tuberculosis. This person is receiving treatment and is showing steady improvement.

Dr. Beverly Townsend, District Health Director for the West Central Health District, explained, “The most important thing for concerned Crisp County High School students and parents to be aware of is there is only a limited risk of exposure. If they were notified (received a letter), concerned parents can have their teens receive a skin test from their primary care provider or the health department.”

The bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis. The bacteria are inhaled in air-borne droplets produced when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or speaks. To become infected with TB, one must have direct extended contact with a contagious person who has the disease. The TB skin test is the most accurate way to determine if a person has been infected.

The Crisp County Health Department offers TB testing and TB related health education materials at the health department. Please call the health department at 229-276-2680 for more information about TB services or to make an appointment to be tested.