Potential Tuberculosis Exposure on Chico State Campus
To: Campus Community
From: WellCat Health Center
We are working closely with Butte County Public Health to investigate a person on campus with possible active tuberculosis (TB). Out of an abundance of caution, the individual is in isolation pending further testing and is receiving support from the University. In the event tuberculosis is confirmed via a follow-up test, we will coordinate with Butte County Public Health to notify persons who have been exposed.
Please be assured that we are taking this situation seriously—your health is of utmost importance. The University will provide updates to the campus as necessary.
For more information about TB, please see the FAQ below or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
What is tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a disease that generally affects the lungs. There are two types of tuberculosis—one is active tuberculosis (TB) and the other is Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) or inactive TB. TB develops over weeks and months and is treatable with medications.
How is TB transmitted?
TB spreads through the air by a person with active TB disease. The bacteria that cause TB are generally only transmitted to people who have prolonged close contact with someone with active TB. It is important to know that TB is much different than COVID-19. Casual contact is generally not sufficient for transmission of TB bacteria, and it cannot be spread by contaminated surfaces.
What are its signs and symptoms?
Symptoms include a bad cough that lasts three or more weeks, pain in the chest, and coughing up blood or phlegm.
How do I know if I’ve been exposed and need to be tested?
If you have been in direct contact with the potential case, you will be contacted by Butte County Public Health or the WellCat Health Center as part of the contact tracing process. If you are not contacted but want to seek testing for your own sense of health, students can access services at WellCat Health Center. Staff and faculty can access testing at Butte County Public Health or through your primary care provider.