North Carolina’s Avery CountyAccording to the Toe River Health District, North Carolina health officials are looking into a confirmed case of tuberculosis (TB) in Avery County, which has prompted contact tracing activities involving more than 100 potentially exposed persons.
Over 100 People Identified for Contact Tracing
Following confirmation that a resident had tested positive for active tuberculosis, the Toe River Health District, in collaboration with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and local school authorities, initiated a thorough investigation. All others who may have had close touch with the infected person are currently being sought out and tested by the health district.
“Our top priority is to identify illnesses, protect the public, and work to contain this exposure,” stated Franklin Gardner, the Toe River Health District’s director. We will keep protecting the public and testing those who are in danger.
School Officials Assisting in Public Safety Effort
The Avery County School System, which is currently collaborating with public health nurses to inform and test impacted persons, was linked to numerous potentially exposed individuals. Officials stressed that local health personnel have been contacted and are providing information and screening to all high-risk connections.
What Are Tuberculosis Symptoms?
Although it can spread to other regions of the body, tuberculosis mainly affects the lungs. This bacterial illness is infectious, and some of its symptoms include:
- Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
- Coughing up blood
- Fever and night sweats
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Unintentional weight loss and poor appetite
Early detection is crucial, officials said, because with the right medication, TB is treatable and curable in over 100% of cases, especially when detected early.
Public Hotline and Next Steps
For residents with inquiries or concerns, a public hotline has been established: (828) 737-6068.
According to officials, testing is not yet required for anyone who has not had direct contact from a health authority. Whether more extensive testing or safety precautions are needed will be determined by the ongoing study.
Community Safety Message
Health professionals keep an eye on the situation and emphasize that, even though tuberculosis can be dangerous, there is still little risk to the general public provided the right containment and treatment measures are taken.
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