News
Chatham County Jail Inmate Tests Positive for Tuberculosis; Health Department and Jail Officials Taking Necessary Precautions
April 30, 2010 - The Chatham County Health Department has confirmed that an inmate at the Chatham County Jail has an active case of Tuberculosis (TB). TB is a disease caused by germs that are spread from person to person through the air and often affects the lungs. The inmate has been removed from the facility and is receiving medical treatment.
"We are working closely with the Chatham County Health Department to take all appropriate steps and have begun testing all inmates for exposure as a precaution," said Chatham County Sheriff, Al St. Lawrence. "Our number one priority is the health and safety of staff, inmates, and the community."
Medical staff and Sheriff's Department staff who were in contact with the inmate will also be tested.
All inmates and jail staff who test positive for TB exposure will be evaluated and offered treatment as indicated which could include taking an antibiotic for six to nine months.
"If someone tests positive for TB it does not mean that they have active TB," said Dr. Diane Weems, Chief Medical Officer for the Chatham County Health Department and Coastal Health District. "Testing positive for TB means that a person has had previous exposure to the disease."
The Chatham County Jail and Chatham County Health Department are also working to identify former inmates who may have been exposed before their release. Any inmates who were incarcerated at the Chatham County Jail between December 24, 2009 and April 9, 2010 should contact the Chatham County Health Department Chest Clinic at 912-356-2155.
TB is spread when a person inhales airborne germs over a prolonged period of time in a confined area from someone with the disease who coughs or sneezes. In addition to the lungs, TB can also affect other parts of the body. The screening test for TB is a skin test called a PPD (Purified Protein Derivative). The test is a simple procedure during which a very small amount of the protein solution is injected just under the skin on the forearm. After 48 to 72 hours, a healthcare worker can look at your forearm for a bump about the size of a pencil eraser, which would indicate possible exposure to the disease and require further testing.