Active Tuberculosis Case Confirmed at Dillard High School

Introduction to the Incident

An active tuberculosis case has been reported in a student at Dillard High School, the Florida Department of Health confirmed to Broward County Public School officials on Tuesday.
The person was “recently on campus,” and health department officials in Broward County began notifying students who could have potentially been exposed, John Sullivan, a spokesperson for Broward County Public Schools, said in a statement Tuesday evening. Students and staff who were impacted were directly contacted.

Response to the Incident

On Wednesday, the health department will offer testing at the Fort Lauderdale school for impacted students with parental consent, Sullivan said.
A spokesperson for the Florida Department of Health did not immediately respond to an email seeking information after business hours Tuesday and could not be reached by phone.
No other information about the student was released.

Understanding Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis, TB, is caused by the germ Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs, according to the state health department, but can also affect the brain, kidneys or spine. It is spread when someone with active TB talks, coughs or sings.
Not everyone infected will become sick, leading to two conditions: inactive or latent TB and active TB disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Active TB can almost always be cured with medicine.

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Symptoms of TB in the lungs or respiratory tract include a cough lasting at least three weeks, chest pain and coughing up blood or phlegm. Other general symptoms include weakness or fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, chills, fever and night sweats.

Trends in Tuberculosis Cases

Cases of TB had consistently been on the decline in the U.S. for nearly three decades but began to rise in 2021, according to the CDC’s latest data shared in 2024. In 2024, more than 10,300 TB cases were reported, an 8% increase from the year before.
A total of 681 cases were reported in Florida last year, a 9% increase from the previous year, according to the CDC’s data.
The latest data available from the Florida Department of Health, from 2023, shows the number of cases reported that year was the highest reported since 2016. Broward County reported 70 cases that year.

Vulnerable Populations and Vaccine Availability

Though anyone can contract TB, the disease disproportionately affects non-U.S.-born people, according to the CDC. And while there is a vaccine for the disease, it is not generally used in the U.S. Many people born outside of the country have received the vaccine.
“Recovery from pandemic-related health care disruptions, increases in post-pandemic travel and migration, and outbreaks in several states have likely contributed to recent TB trends,” the CDC said in its 2024 report.

Recent Outbreaks and Testing

The Associated Press reported earlier this year that a yearlong TB outbreak in Kansas City, Kansas, killed two people.
Florida Department of Health officials advise people to contact the local department about eligibility requirements for TB testing. “Most” health departments in Florida do not offer TB testing to low-risk individuals; testing is offered to people who meet certain requirements.
Primary care doctors, walk-in clinics and community health centers offer testing and treatment for those with latent TB infections, according to FDOH.

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Conclusion

The confirmation of an active tuberculosis case at Dillard High School highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in controlling the spread of TB. As the disease can affect anyone but those born outside the U.S. are at a higher risk, it’s crucial for communities to be aware of the symptoms and the importance of testing and treatment.

FAQs

• Q: What is tuberculosis (TB)?
  • A: Tuberculosis is a disease caused by the germ Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body.
• Q: How is TB spread?
  • A: TB is spread when someone with active TB talks, coughs, or sings, releasing droplets that contain the germ.
• Q: What are the symptoms of TB?
  • A: Symptoms include a cough lasting at least three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or phlegm, weakness or fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, chills, fever, and night sweats.
• Q: Can TB be cured?
  • A: Yes, active TB can almost always be cured with medicine.
• Q: Is there a vaccine for TB?
  • A: Yes, there is a vaccine for TB, but it is not generally used in the U.S.
• Q: How can I get tested for TB?
  • A: Contact your local health department about eligibility requirements for TB testing. Primary care doctors, walk-in clinics, and community health centers also offer testing and treatment for latent TB infections.
    Originally Published: April 29, 2025 at 8:18 PM EDT