Tuberculosis Case Reported At University Of San Diego

SAN DIEGO, CA – Public health officials are warning the public of possible tuberculosis exposure at the University of San Diego.

The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency is working with USD officials to notify people who may have been exposed to the infectious disease between March 28 and June 20.

"Testing is recommended for all those exposed to assure they are not infected, since they may not have symptoms," Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer, said in a statement. "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 to tuberculosis do not become infected, health officials said. Symptoms of active tuberculosis include persistent cough, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss.

County officials recommend people with tuberculosis symptoms and individuals who are immune-compromised see their doctor immediately. Tuberculosis can be treated and cured with antibiotics.

Free screenings for students who have been identified as potentially exposed to tuberculosis 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 in Maher Hall, Room 140, 5998 Alcala Park.

The number of tuberculosis 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.

For more information, call the USD Student Health Center at 619-260-4595 or the county tuberculosis control program at 619-692-8621.

Also see:

• Potential TB Exposure Reported At UCSD
• Potential TB Exposure Reported At Grossmont-Cuyamaca Campuses
• Tuberculosis Exposures Reported At 2 San Diego County Schools
• Students, Staff Possibly Exposed To Tuberculosis At 2 South Bay Schools

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