Tuberculosis Case Identified At RivCo High School

INDIO, CA — A Riverside County high school student has tested positive for tuberculosis (TB), public health officials said Friday.

The Indio High School student is receiving medical care and is expected to make a full recovery. The news comes as the county reports a rise in TB cases.

The Riverside University Health System – Public Health department worked with the Desert Sand Unified School District to notify parents, guardians, faculty and staff who may have come into contact with the student between April and the end of May.

“Our team is working closely with the school to identify anyone who may have had close contact with the student and ensure they receive appropriate testing and follow-up care,” said Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky, Riverside County Public Health Officer. "Given the rise in tuberculosis cases we’ve seen in our county, this is an important reminder that TB disease is both preventable and treatable.”

TB is a disease caused by bacteria can spread through the air during prolonged, repeated and close contact with someone who has infectious TB disease. In many cases, many will maintain a latent infection that shows no symptoms. In that case, it isn't contagious and does not progress to active TB with the right treatment. The symptoms of TB include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss, the county said.

Across Riverside County, 98 active TB cases were reported last year — an increase from 63 cases in 2023.

For those who may have been exposed, a TB test will be offered. If the test is positive, the person will be sent for a chest X-ray and then follow up with Public Health.

If the chest X-ray does not reveal disease in the lungs, health professionals will recommend treatment for latent TB, which will prevent it from progressing.

"Desert Sands Unified School District is committed to the health and safety of our students and staff," said Tamara Wadkins, Public Information Officer for DSUSD. "We appreciate the work of public health officials as they guide our response and provide support to our school community. Counseling services are available to assist any student or staff member who may feel unsettled during this time."