BOSTON — An individual at the University of Massachusetts Boston campus has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis, or (TB), officials said in a letter to school officials Monday.
Robert Pomares, director of university health services, said about 39 people on campus have been identified as potentially exposed to tuberculosis patients and have been contacted about steps to protect themselves.
The person, whose ties to UW-Boston have not been disclosed, was receiving treatment and may have been infected several years before the outbreak flared up.
“While tuberculosis is a serious disease caused by bacteria that spreads through the air, it is important to note that the entire University of Massachusetts Boston community is not at increased risk of contracting a tuberculosis infection as a result of this case. ” said Professor Pomares. letter.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that usually attacks the lungs and can be fatal if not treated properly.
The bacteria that causes tuberculosis spreads through the air, so when someone with tuberculosis in their lungs or throat coughs, talks or sings, others can inhale the bacteria, health officials say. states. However, tuberculosis is not easily transmitted from person to person, and not everyone infected with tuberculosis will develop the disease.
This can potentially mean that the bacteria can exist in a person’s body without causing disease. However, tuberculosis can develop at any time after infection. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Common symptoms of active tuberculosis include persistent cough, fever, chills, night sweats, and weight loss.
Massachusetts Boston requires all students to complete a tuberculosis screening questionnaire International students coming from high-risk countries will also be required to be tested.
Although tuberculosis is rare in Massachusetts, cases do occur. In 2022, there were 153 cases in the state. According to health data. More than 90% of Massachusetts cases were people born outside the United States
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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