Tuberculosis Outbreak Reported at Elmhurst University
Two Students Test Positive for Contagious Disease
DuPage County health officials are investigating cases of tuberculosis reported this week in students at Elmhurst University. Two students tested positive for the contagious infectious disease on Thursday, according to Elmhurst University President Troy VanAken.
Students Isolated and Under Medical Supervision
The two students who tested positive for tuberculosis have been isolated and placed under medical supervision. The school and the DuPage County Health Department are working to identify and contact people who may have been in close contact with the infected students.
Free Testing Provided for Those in Close Contact
Those who were in close contact with the infected students are being provided with free testing. The school and health department are taking proactive measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.
About Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a potentially life-threatening disease that is transmitted through the air when a person with active tuberculosis coughs or speaks. The disease can affect any part of the body, but it is usually known to affect the lungs.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Symptoms of tuberculosis include cough, fever, fatigue, sweating, and unexplained weight loss. Not all cases show symptoms.
Treatment Options
Physicians can prescribe various medications to treat tuberculosis.
Elmhurst University’s Response
“In my almost nine years at Elmhurst, it’s been my privilege to see how this community has responded to different challenges we’ve faced,” VanAken said in a statement. “Because this situation is unfamiliar to most of us, it’s especially important that we be thoughtful and show care, grace, and consideration during this time.”
Conclusion
The university and health department are working together to contain the outbreak and ensure the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff. The community is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
FAQs
* What is tuberculosis?
+ Tuberculosis, or TB, is a contagious infectious disease caused by bacteria that attacks any part of the body, but usually the lungs.
* How is TB transmitted?
+ TB is spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs or speaks.
* What are the symptoms of TB?
+ Symptoms include cough, fever, fatigue, sweating, and unexplained weight loss. Not all cases show symptoms.
* How is TB treated?
+ Physicians can prescribe various medications to treat TB.
* What is being done to contain the outbreak?
+ The university and health department are working together to identify and contact people who may have been in close contact with the infected students, and providing free testing to those who may have been exposed.
