San Diego County health officials are notifying people who visited jails or courts, who could have been exposed to tuberculosis.
The unrelated exposures were at North County Court Services, the Vista Detention Facility, and Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility.
The exposure dates were July 5 to July 13 at the Vista Detention Facility, July 9 and July 10 at the North County Court Services, July 18, July 19 and July 26 to August 3 at Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility.
Tuberculosis is transmitted from person to person through indoor air during prolonged contact with an infectious individual.
Most people who are exposed do not become infected.
“Testing is recommended for people who were exposed to assure they are not infected, since initial infection usually has no symptoms,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer.
“For any infected individuals, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can prevent the infectious form of the disease.
”Symptoms of active tuberculosis include persistent cough, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss.
For individuals with symptoms of tuberculosis, or those with compromised immune systems and may not show symptoms, it is important that the person sees their medical provider to rule out tuberculosis. Tuberculosis can be treated and cured with antibiotics.
Testing will be offered by County Public Health Services at no cost to individuals who potentially have been exposed.
Photo Credit: SD County