Tuberculosis case confirmed

Tuberculosis case confirmed

A student at Te Puke High School has recently been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB).

TB is a respiratory disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis and can be treated successfully over a period of time with antibiotics.

The student is being treated for the illness and the school has been working closely with Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service to ensure close contacts are identified and offered health advice.

Although TB is not easily passed from person to person, as a precaution, screening is being offered to a small number of classmates and staff who have had regular contact with the student. These people, and any other identified friends, associates, or groups who may need screening, have been or will be contacted directly.

All school families have been sent a letter explaining the situation and information leaflets about TB are available at the school.

ENDS

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