Woodbridge Teen Tests Positive For Tuberculosis

WOODBRIDGE, NJ — A student at Colonia High School in Woodbridge tested positive for tuberculosis, according to multiple media reports.

Colonia High School principal Chris Chiera sent a letter to the school community Friday, letting parents know the student tested positive for the contagious virus, according to NJ.com. The principal said the student is being treated and is doing well.

The Middlesex County Health Department is aware of this case and is assisting in the investigation, said Min Kim, a spokeswoman for Middlesex County. The Woodbridge Twp. Health Department is working to identify students and staff who were exposed to the student. Anyone identified as a close contact will be screened.

Tuberculosis is a serious illness caused by bacteria in the lungs. It is contagious, especially when someone coughs or talks. If left untreated, tuberculosis can be fatal, however patients who undergo treatment have good outcomes. There is a vaccine for tuberculosis, however it is not routinely used due to the low incidence of TB in the U.S.