Westhill student infected with TB
Updated 7:49 pm, Saturday, March 12, 2011
The Stamford Health Department and Board of Education will offer skin testing to other students for tuberculosis this coming week, although it is unlikely that other students have contracted the respiratory disease, said medical adviser Henry Yoon in a note sent home to parents last week.
"The risk that your child contracted tuberculosis from this exposure is extremely low," Yoon said. "However, because it is theoretically possible, you should consider having your child tested for tuberculosis."
The testing, which is not mandatory, can be arranged through the school nurse or through families' personal doctors.
Tuberculosis is caused by a bacterium, according to the Center for Disease Control. The bacteria typically attack the lungs, but can also target the kidney, spine and brain. Tuberculosis can be fatal if not treated properly.
Tuberculosis is spread through the air from person to person, according to the CDC. The bacteria enter the air when a person infected with tuberculosis of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks or sings.
People nearby may breathe in the bacteria and become infected. Tuberculosis cannot be spread through actions such as shaking hands, kissing, sharing food or drink or sharing toothbrushes.