This email was sent to all faculty and staff on Jan. 10, 2024.
Central District Health (CDH) has notified Boise State University of a reported case of tuberculosis (TB) in a Chaffee Hall resident.
The individual left Boise to return home on Dec. 15, 2023, and has not returned. At this time there is no known ongoing risk for TB exposure on campus. It is safe for students and staff to attend classes and participate in activities as usual.
Boise State Public Health is working with CDH to identify individuals who may have been in contact with the individual. Those identified will be contacted with information regarding screening options and recommendations. Screening is also available through primary care providers and local health departments. Most cases of TB are treatable with antibiotics that are commonly available.
No person other than those contacted directly by Boise State or CDH will need to take action. The general public is not at an increased risk of getting TB as a result of this case.
About Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is a disease caused by bacteria that spreads through the air, usually through repeated and prolonged exposure in a confined indoor space. It often affects the lungs but may also affect other parts of the body.
- Most people who are exposed to TB do not get infected. It is only spread through the air in close proximity for an extended period of time. People who are infected cannot pass TB to others unless they are experiencing TB symptoms.
- Typical symptoms of tuberculosis disease include a chronic cough, fever or night sweats that are persistent for several weeks and usually get worse.
- People experiencing chronic symptoms who believe they may have been exposed to TB should call their primary care provider.
Updates will be posted on the Boise State Public Health website. Disease-related questions can be directed to Central District Health at (208) 327-8625. Boise State related questions can be directed to Boise State Public Health at publichealth@boisestate.edu or (208) 426-2968.