UA Student Receiving Treatment for Tuberculosis

According to state health officials, a University of Alabama student has tested positive for tuberculosis.

The student is currently receiving treatment for the disease out of state and is expected to make a full recovery.

According to the Mayo Clinic,

Tuberculosis is a potentially serious infectious disease that mainly affects your lungs. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis are spread from one person to another through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes.

 

In an article with Fox 6, Pam Barrett, director of the Division of TB Control with the ADPH is quoted as saying,

TB is not easily transmitted, and even individuals who are exposed to the bacteria may not get sick. However, out of an abundance of caution, the Alabama Department of Public Health is testing those members of the university community who are believed to have had close contact with the student.

State health officials also stated that the student being treated has not been on the Tuscaloosa campus since May.