A health department in Nebraska is actively investigating over 500 potential exposures to tuberculosis (TB) associated with a confirmed case at a YMCA in Omaha. The individual with the infection was part of the YMCA’s drop-in child care program, indicating that the primary demographic at risk of exposure consists of young children.
The Douglas County Health Department has issued guidance, recommending that individuals who had close contact with the infected person between May 30 and Oct. 30 undergo testing for tuberculosis bacteria. TB is known to spread through the air when an individual with an active case coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
The public health advisory underscores the importance of identifying and testing individuals who may have been exposed to TB to prevent further transmission and protect the health of the community, particularly the vulnerable population involved in the YMCA’s child care program.
Many people who become infected with the bacteria never develop symptomatic tuberculosis. Up to 13 million people in the U.S. have latent tuberculosis infections, meaning the bacteria is inactive and the infected person doesn’t have symptoms and isn’t contagious. Around 5% to 10% of infections, if left untreated, progress to active disease. A health department
In adults, symptoms of tuberculosis typically include a persistent cough lasting three weeks or more, chest pain, and coughing up blood or phlegm, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Children may exhibit symptoms such as cough, weakness, lethargy, weight loss, fever, or night sweats.
Dr. Kari Neemann, medical adviser for the Douglas County Health Department, reported that the active case was diagnosed over the weekend.
The health department became aware of the case on Monday and identified the association with the YMCA on Tuesday, according to Justin Frederick, the department’s deputy director.
The YMCA of Greater Omaha used attendance records to identify individuals, both children and staff, who may have been exposed. Subsequently, the YMCA reached out to these individuals on Thursday to communicate the potential risk and advise on necessary actions. Swift communication and identification are critical in managing the situation and preventing further spread of the infection.