GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — A case of Tuberculosis was found at Ragsdale High School in Jamestown, according to the Guilford County Department of Health and Human Services.
“Though there is no immediate public health risk from this case, we have informed staff, parents, and guardians of students who need to be tested to ensure any potential exposure to TB is identified,” said Dr. Iulia Vann, Guilford County Public Health Director.
The health director was notified Friday about the case at the Guilford County School as they are working to identify possible exposures.
All students, staff, and guardians have since been informed about the case.
The health department is providing testing at the school this week at no cost. The majority of staff and students will not need any testing or treatment. Anyone with a positive test will be offered medication for treatment at no cost as well. Post-exposure treatment prevents the development of TB.
TB is a respiratory disease that typically develops over weeks to months. TB spreads like a cold or flu but is not as contagious and is curable with medication.
While the community needs to be aware of the case investigation, no one is at immediate risk of health problems related to this case and there is no further risk of exposure. Regardless of exposure, there is no need to limit activities.
Guilford County Schools is expected to release a statement this afternoon.
For additional information, contact the Guilford County Division of Public Health at (336) 641-3245.