Hundreds of children in Omaha are being tested for tuberculosis after potentially being exposed to the infection through a drop-in day-care program. Local health officials estimate that more than 500 children will need to be tested within the next week, with younger children being given preventive drugs.
Tuberculosis is a particularly serious concern for children, as they are more vulnerable to the disease and can become very sick quickly. This case is being considered an urgent situation, with the health department preparing to declare a public health emergency.
The potential exposure occurred at a YMCA day-care program, where parents can leave children while using the facilities. Health officials alerted anyone who had come into contact with the infected individual from May through October, creating a large pool of potential exposure.
Officials plan to have a clearer picture of the situation by the week of November 20th when test results should be complete. The results for younger children should be known by Tuesday or Wednesday.
The United States has been working to eliminate tuberculosis, but it remains in circulation. Health officials are urging rapid action in this case, particularly due to the vulnerability of the children involved.
The health department is hoping for negative test results but is prepared to handle cases if they arise, understanding that the situation could potentially escalate. The patient who tested positive for tuberculosis is currently isolating and being monitored during treatment, and the health department is working diligently to test anyone who could have been exposed.