10 More TB Cases Identified At George Bush High School

RICHMOND, TX — The second round of testing for tuberculosis at George Bush High School has revealed 10 new cases of the airborne disease.

Officials confirmed Wednesday that 10 more cases of TB were discovered after students and staff were retested earlier this month.

Those people are now being treated for TB.

Fort Bend County Health officials learned in May that staff and students had been exposed to TB, and began the first round of testing in June.

RELATED: TB Testing Begin At George Bush High School

Officials identified 11 positive cases of TB from the first round of testing in June, and ordered the second round on Aug. 3.

Officials tested a total of 647 students and 27 staff members over the summer months.

Those who’ve tested positive for TB are all being treated with a battery of medications, which prevent the disease from developing.

Officials stressed that even though some have been exposed, it does not mean they have the disease or will become infected, and they cannot spread the bacteria themselves even though they have been exposed.

So far, 12 people from the school have not been tested and are not allowed on campus, officials said.

Image: Shutterstock

Send your news tips to bryan.kirk@patch.com