CSUSB Palm Desert student suspected of having TB
A student at the Palm Desert campus of Cal State San Bernardino is suspected of having active tuberculosis and Riverside County health officials are working with university officials to identify students and staff who might have been exposed to the illness.
The student is receiving treatment and is expected to recover, although the individual will not return to school until a medical clearance is issued. The student is not being identified due to confidentiality requirements.
Riverside County health officials are sending out a letter to students and the parents of students under 18 who have been identified as at-risk of being exposed to this illness. Staff members who may have been exposed will receive notification from the college.
As a precautionary measure the health department is recommending that anyone who receives the notice be screened with a TB skin test at a clinic being planned at the Palm Desert Campus on April 7 and 14 (and must be able to return 48 hours later to have the skin test evaluated) or be seen by their own medical provider. Those who do not receive notification are considered not to be at risk for exposure.
Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Cameron Kaiser emphasized the risk of transmission is very low.
“While the risk of infection is slight, it is important that those who are notified take the time to get tested,” Kaiser said. “It will provide peace of mind for those who are concerned about being exposed or begin the next step in the evaluation process.”
“Cal State San Bernardino is committed to campus health and safety,” said Doris Wilson, the associate dean for the Palm Desert Campus. “Individuals who received a notice are encouraged to call the R.D. and Joan Dale Hubbard Student Health and Psychological Counseling Center to schedule an appointment for a TB test at (909) 537-8177.” The Health Center will be able to receive phone calls starting Thursday, April 2.
