Turberculosis
Jan 17, 2002 10:52 AM
Tuberculosis (TB), once thought to be a disease of the past, has again reached epidemic proportions in New York City and some other urban areas. It also has grown more threatening because some of the TB germs have become resistant to the medications that usually can be used to cure the disease.
School staff, parents and students have expressed concern about contracting TB in the schools or in other public places in New York City. The United Federation of Teachers has produced this booklet to help answer your questions about TB.
As the booklet explains, tuberculosis is contagious, but healthy people who are exposed to TB germs seldom become sick. In most instances TB is spread by prolonged contact, such as with family members or close friends. Schools are not considered a high risk location for catching TB.
