SALISBURY, N.C. — Rowan County Public Health is investigating a confirmed case of tuberculosis involving an individual at Rowan-Salisbury School System.
Free testing is being offered to individuals identified as having significant exposure.
The county health department is investigating coordination with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health and Rowan-Salisbury Schools.
Health officials confirmed that all individuals who had close contact with the infected person have already been directly notified.
Health officials emphasized that tuberculosis is not an immediate life-threatening emergency and generally develops over weeks to months. The illness is curable with medication.
Individuals do not need to seek testing or take action unless they are contacted by health or school officials.
Public health authorities specifically advised residents not to visit emergency departments or urgent care centers solely for tuberculosis testing. Individuals determined to be at increased risk are being contacted for testing.
Active tuberculosis most commonly affects the lungs. Symptoms can include a cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, fever, excessive night sweats, weight loss, poor appetite, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing.
For additional information regarding the exposure or testing procedures, residents may contact the Rowan County Public Health Tuberculosis Line at 704-216-8771.
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