Three unrelated tuberculosis exposures reported in San Diego County

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The County of San Diego is warning the public about three separate tuberculosis exposures that occurred in the area this year.

The first exposure took place at UC San Diego's La Jolla campus, located at 9500 Gilman Drive, between July 1, 2023 to March 20, according to county health officials. Those potentially exposed include students, employees and contractors.

The second exposure was reported at the East Mesa Reentry Facility, located at 446 Alta Road, from Jan. 2 to June 5.

The third exposure occurred within the Sweetwater Union High School District at Chula Vista High School, located at 820 Fourth Avenue, between Feb. 23 to May 22.

Tuberculosis is an airborne disease that spreads through coughing, speaking, singing or breathing. Symptoms include persistent cough, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss.

“Most people who become infected after exposure to tuberculosis do not get sick right away. This is called latent TB infection. Some who become infected with tuberculosis will become ill in the future, sometimes even years later, if their latent TB infection is not treated. For people who think they may have been exposed, blood tests and skin tests are an effective way to determine an infection,” said Ankita Kadakia, M.D., County Interim Public Health Officer.  

Tuberculosis cases have risen since 2020, according to the county. A total of 243 people were reportedly diagnosed with active TB disease in San Diego County, compared to 208 cases in 2022, 201 in 2021 and 193 in 2020.

For more information on the potential exposures, call the County Tuberculosis Control Program at 619-692-8621.