Nearly 700 patients and an additional 100 staff members at Emory University Hospital may have been exposed to tuberculosis by an infected worker, state health officials said Friday.
The Georgia Department of Community Health has sent letters to 680 former patients who came into contact with the Emory employee between Feb. 7 and April 17. The department also notified patients who likely had interaction with the worker during the three months prior to February as an extra safety precaution.
Individuals who receive letters are being encouraged to be tested for the infectious disease at their local health departments. The screening involves a simple skin test with results typically available within 48 to 72 hours.
Few people exposed to the disease actually contract the infection, according to the state agency. Passed from person to person through the air, tuberculosis can cause coughing, chest pains, weakness, fatigue and other symptoms.
About the Author
