Hundreds of Preschoolers in Nebraska Tested for Tuberculosis After Active Case at Daycare

Police – Accident – Death – Obituary News : Nebraska health officials are taking urgent measures to contain the spread of tuberculosis (TB) after an active case was confirmed at a day care center in Douglas County. The Douglas County Health Department has declared a public health emergency as more than 500 people are believed to have been exposed to the disease.

The potential exposures are believed to have occurred at the Westview YMCA drop-in day care between late spring and late October. In response, the health department is conducting a thorough investigation into the patient’s activities while contagious in order to identify potential exposures. They are also ensuring that the patient is isolated and completing their medication until they test negative for TB.

To further contain the spread of the disease, the health department will be conducting testing clinics at the YMCA from November 15 to 17. These clinics are specifically for individuals who were identified as being exposed between late May and August 21. It is important to note that testing for tuberculosis is only recommended for those who had close contact with the infected individual on one or more occasions. Brief exposures in areas such as cafeterias, hallways, restrooms, or gymnasiums are not considered to be significant enough for testing.

The agency is urging staff and children who were exposed between August 21 and October 30 to be screened immediately and again 8 to 10 weeks after their most recent exposure. Additionally, children under the age of 4 who were exposed during the same period should undergo chest X-rays and receive window prophylaxis as soon as possible.

Parents or guardians of children who may have been exposed received an email notification on November 8, ensuring that they are aware of the situation and can take appropriate precautions.

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and fever. In severe cases, individuals may cough up blood or mucus. The disease is spread when an infected individual develops symptoms and coughs or breathes out the bacteria, particularly in enclosed spaces over an extended period of time.

Fortunately, tuberculosis is a curable disease with the right treatment. Standardized courses of drugs, including antibacterial medicines, are typically used to treat the infection, as recommended by the World Health Organization. However, it is crucial for individuals to seek medical attention promptly and adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen.

Tuberculosis remains a significant global health issue, with approximately 10 million people falling ill with the disease each year. Sadly, about 1.5 million people lose their lives to tuberculosis annually. The current situation in Douglas County highlights the importance of swift action and comprehensive testing to prevent further transmission of the disease..