Tuberculosis Case Confirmed at Dillard High School

Health officials confirmed a case of active tuberculosis (TB) at Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale. The Florida Department of Health in Broward County did not disclose whether the affected individual is a student or staff member but stated the person was recently on campus.

School officials and health authorities have notified individuals identified as close contacts. “No further action is needed unless you are contacted directly,” the school’s principal informed parents. On-campus TB testing will be available with parental consent.

What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits. Inhaling just a few TB germs can result in infection.

Symptoms and Risks
Common symptoms include a prolonged cough, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. In severe cases, patients may cough up blood, and the infection can spread to organs like the brain and kidneys. Without proper treatment, TB can be fatal in up to two-thirds of active cases.

Treatment and Prevention
TB is treatable with a strict, months-long antibiotic regimen. Stopping treatment early can lead to drug-resistant TB. A vaccine called BCG exists but is rarely used in the U.S., typically reserved for individuals at high risk after consultation with a TB expert.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation to ensure campus safety.