A student recovering from tuberculosis has returned to class without clearance from doctors, prompting concerns among parents and school administrators. The Charleroi Area School District superintendent, Dr. Edward Zelich, confirmed that the student was isolated after returning to school on Monday morning.
According to Dr. Zelich, the student had been diagnosed with TB a couple of weeks ago but did not seek clearance from doctors before rejoining their classmates. Staff members took steps to isolate the student and send them home, while also sanitizing areas where they were present.
The Pennsylvania Health Department has reviewed the situation and found no immediate public health action necessary. However, officials emphasized that additional measures might be required if a case is confirmed as infectious. Dr. Graham Snyder, UPMC Medical Director for Infection Prevention, noted that children in the US are not typically vaccinated against TB and that cases are relatively rare.
The district had previously sent letters to families addressing rumors of an outbreak on December 27, which was later confirmed as unfounded. Despite this, some parents expressed concern after receiving news of the student’s return without clearance. The superintendent assured parents that there are no active TB cases in the district and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
The school district is working with health officials to ensure student safety and well-being, while also educating parents about TB and its transmission.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/charleroi-area-high-school-student-positive-tuberculosis-no-doctors-clearance