Elk Grove, CA – Sacramento County health officials have confirmed a case of tuberculosis (TB) at Monterey Trail High School. The news has understandably raised concerns among parents, students, and staff. Here's a breakdown of what we know, what the health department is doing, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.

Understanding the Situation

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also impact other parts of the body. It's spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs, speaks, sings, or sneezes. While TB is treatable with medication, early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent its spread.

According to health officials, the student who tested positive is believed to have been exposed to TB sometime between April 11th and July 17th. The exact timeframe is important for contact tracing efforts.

Health Department Response & Contact Tracing

The Sacramento County Public Health Department is actively conducting contact tracing to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the student. This process involves interviewing the student and reviewing school records to determine who they were in close contact with during the exposure period.

Individuals identified as potential contacts will be offered TB testing. It's important to note that a TB test only indicates exposure to the bacteria; it doesn't necessarily mean a person has active TB. Further evaluation and testing will be required to determine if infection has occurred.

What Monterey Trail High School is Doing

School officials are cooperating fully with the health department's investigation. They are providing information and assisting with contact tracing efforts. While the school building itself isn't considered a source of infection, health officials are working to identify and notify anyone who may have been at risk.

What Parents and Students Should Do

• Stay Informed: Monitor communications from the school and the Sacramento County Public Health Department for updates and instructions.
• Be Aware of Symptoms: Common symptoms of TB include a persistent cough, coughing up blood or mucus, chest pain, weakness or fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
• Get Tested if Recommended: If you are contacted by the health department and advised to get tested, please do so promptly.
• Don't Panic: TB is treatable, and the health department is taking steps to contain the situation.

Resources

• Sacramento County Public Health – Tuberculosis
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Tuberculosis

This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.