One confirmed tuberculosis case, 22 infections at Garza High School in Fresno
An active case of tuberculosis has emerged at a high school in Fresno, though officials say there’s minimal risk to the community.
The Fresno County Department of Public Health confirmed the case at Justin Garza High School on Wednesday morning. Department spokesperson Sonia Brar said the one confirmed, active case yielded 169 identified exposures, and 22 of those tested positive for infection.
An active case of tuberculosis means someone feels sick and is able to spread the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In situations of tuberculosis infection, or latent tuberculosis, people were exposed to the condition but do not feel sick and are unable to spread it. Treatment helps prevent latent tuberculosis from escalating into active cases.
It’s unclear if the active case is an adult or juvenile. The department is working with Justin Garza staff to conduct contact tracing, testing and treatment.
Johnathon Burrows, spokesperson for Central Unified, said the school district is following all safety protocols.
There’s minimal risk to the public, Brar said. Aside from the one confirmed case, there are currently no other contagious tuberculosis cases at the school.
