SPRINGDALE — A case of tuberculosis has been confirmed at Harbor High School, according to a Friday email from an Arkansas Department of Health public information officer.
Meg Millibel, director of the Office of Health Public Affairs, forwarded a letter Haber allegedly sent to “students and staff who came into contact with this incident,” according to the email.
The letter reads in part, “The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has been notified that your child may have had close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB). We strongly recommend that you undergo testing.” This is to determine that you are not infected with tuberculosis. ”
Milibel said the letter was only sent to those who may have been exposed at the school.
There is no co-pay for the test and it can be taken at the health department’s office at 614 Emma Street in Springdale, the letter said.
“Tuberculosis is treatable and we urge everyone who receives the letter to follow the instructions in the letter,” Milibel said.
Trent Jones, the district’s communications director, confirmed the situation.
“Springdale schools will be following guidelines from the Arkansas Department of Health,” Jones said.
According to the World Health Organization website, tuberculosis is caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or spits, and when other people breathe in the germs, the website said. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 10 million people worldwide contract tuberculosis each year.
The Ministry of Health’s letter said that while the infection may not show any symptoms, it could develop into a serious illness if not detected and treated early.
According to the Ministry of Health, symptoms of active TB include a cough that lasts for more than three weeks, coughing up blood, fever, night sweats and fatigue.
