Health Officials Confirm Tuberculosis Case at Michigan High School

A case of active tuberculosis has been confirmed in Michigan.

Health officials for the Kalamazoo County Government confirm that a person at Kalamazoo Central High School was recently diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB).

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At this time, that person has been isolated from others and is currently undergoing treatment. Officials are also seeking out individuals who might have prolonged periods of exposure to the person with TB, and are offering care at no charge to those individuals.

Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria and can spread from person to person in the air. However, one good thing is that tuberculosis is not as easily transmittable as the cold or the flu. You can't get tuberculosis from shaking hands, sharing food, or even kissing. "Extended periods of time in enclosed spaces are required for TB to spread."

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It's important to receive treatment right away because tuberculosis can wreck havoc on your lungs, as well as other parts of your body, like the brain, kidneys, or spine. Tuberculosis can also be deadly.

What are the Signs of Tuberculosis?

If you feel like you may have be exposed to TB, there are signs to look out for:

• cough, with or without blood or mucus
• chest pain
• pain while breathing or coughing
• fever
• chills
• night sweats
• weight loss
• loss of appetite
• tiredness

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms for a few days or more, it's important to see your health care provider. Tuberculosis is easily treatable. And, easily preventable with vaccination.