Hitchcock HS employee diagnosed with tuberculosis; possible 120 students, staff exposed

GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas - The Galveston County Health District has confirmed a staff member at Hitchcock High School has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB) and is receiving treatment at a local hospital.

An active investigation is underway as the health district has initiated outreach to those who may have been exposed to the staff member. Individuals identified as potentially exposed will be contacted directly and provided with instructions for evaluation and testing.

As many as 120 students and staff members were potentually exposed, says Galveston County Health Authority and CEO of the Galveston County Health District, Dr. Philip Keiser.

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The science teacher who was ill was originally being treated for pneumonia before testing came back positive for TB. Hitchcock ISD and the health district were informed about the diagnosis on Thursday afternoon.

According to health officials, the infection is not easily spread and requires close contact with the infected person for more than six hours over five to seven days.

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It was stated the teacher had a lingering cough, but officials say close exposure was limited so the risk was decreased. Galveston County Health district and Hitchcock Independent School District continued with testing to ensure no one was infected. However, they believe there is low risk since students were in the teacher's class for 45 to 50 minutes each school day.

Students and staff could receive blood draw screenings on Friday in the nurse's office on campus. Those who did not attend can get a free screening at the Galveston County Health District’s Communicable Disease Office by calling (409) 938-2354.

Dr. Keiser says even though a student goes to Hitchcock HS, it does not mean they have TB.

The teacher is receiving treatment in a hospital. Tuberculosis is treatable and curable, with a low risk of infection for most people exposed to this case, health officials state.

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No additional active TB cases have been reported.

Testing is being arranged for those identified as exposed, with additional testing to be made available in the coming weeks for others who feel they may need it.

Some symptoms of tuberculosis include chest pain, pain while breathing, coughing with some instances of blood, chills, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, malaise, night sweats, sweating, loss of muscle, phlegm, severe unintentional weight loss, shortness of breath, or swollen lymph nodes.

The health district states they will keep the community updated.

Click here for more information on Tuberculosis from the CDC.