"High School TB Outbreak Sparks Public Health Crisis"

Health authorities have confirmed an active case of tuberculosis (TB) at Coldwater High School (CHS), initiating a comprehensive investigation to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed during the 2024-2025 spring semester.

In a joint statement, Coldwater Community Schools (CCS) and the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA) assured the community that the affected individual is currently receiving treatment. They emphasized that while TB is a serious condition, it is treatable, and outbreaks in U.S. school settings are uncommon.

TB is an airborne disease primarily affecting the lungs but can also impact other organs. Transmission typically requires prolonged, close contact in enclosed spaces. Symptoms include a persistent cough, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. Unlike the flu or common cold, TB is not spread through casual contact such as shaking hands or sharing personal items.

Individuals identified as potentially exposed will receive notifications with recommendations for testing and a health questionnaire. Testing will be provided at no cost through BHSJCHA. Those not identified as exposed are not required to take action but may seek testing for peace of mind by contacting their healthcare provider or the BHSJCHA clinic at 517-279-9561 ext. 123.

Community members are advised to monitor for TB symptoms and report any concerns to their healthcare provider and BHSJCHA. Further communications will be provided as the investigation progresses.

For more information on TB and local health services, visit the BHSJCHA website.