January 16, 2019
Denver Public Health has opened an investigation into a potential tuberculosis (TB) exposure at Aurora Hills Middle School in Aurora, CO. Denver Public Health is working closely with Tri-County Health Department and Aurora Hills Middle School to educate faculty and students about TB, and to test anyone potentially exposed.
At this time there is no ongoing risk for TB exposure at the school.
At this time, staff and students who might have been exposed are being contacted and will be tested. Additionally, all students, staff and parents at the school have been informed of the matter. It is safe for students and staff to attend school and participate in activities as usual.
TB is a disease caused by germs that are spread between people through the air. It usually affects the lungs but may also affect other parts of the body.
- Most people who are exposed to TB do not get infected.
- People who are infected cannot give TB to others unless they are sick.
- Typical symptoms of tuberculosis are a chronic cough, fever, or night sweats that are persistent for several weeks and usually getting worse.
- A person who is infected with TB but is not sick can be treated to eliminate the infection to prevent them from getting sick in the future.
People experiencing chronic symptoms who think they may have been exposed to TB should call their primary care provider or Denver Public Health to schedule a test.
Additional facts about TB are available on the Denver Metro Tuberculosis Clinic’s website. People with additional questions should call their primary care provider.
