The DeKalb County Board of Health is investigating possible exposures to tuberculosis (TB) at Redan High School.

The Board of Health plans to administer TB skin tests to all students and staff of the school on Friday, Dec. 6. The results will be read on Monday, Dec. 9.

This investigation is necessary because the Board of Health received a report of a person diagnosed with a potentially contagious case of tuberculosis. The person is no longer in the school and is being treated. Members of the individual's household are also being tested.

Dr. Paul Wiesner, director of the DeKalb County Board of Health, emphasizes "The most important thing for parents to do is to be sure their child receives a skin test on Friday."

Tuberculosis is caused by tubercule bacteria. The bacteria are inhaled in air-borne droplets produced when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or speaks. To become infected with TB, one must share the air with a contagious person who has the disease.

In the past five years, the overall trend in reported TB cases has declined in metropolitan Atlanta, as well as in Georgia and the U.S. However, it is present throughout the U.S., so the diagnosis of TB among high-school age persons is not unexpected.

The DeKalb County Board of Health offers TB testing at all five of its health centers. Call 404-294-3700 for information on the center nearest you.

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