A Pennsylvania school has parents and students alike freaked out over an infectious disease exposure that occurred on Monday, January 13. According to the Charleroi Area School District, a student who was diagnosed with tuberculosis weeks ago attended school. The student didn't have medical clearance from their doctor.
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Superintendent Edward J. Zelich confirmed the incident in the school district's statement, published on Facebook. "The student, who attended school today, was diagnosed with tuberculosis a couple of weeks ago," Zelich wrote. "Upon learning that the student had returned without a doctor's clearance to return to school, we immediately isolated the student and sent them home. We have also thoroughly cleaned the areas where the student was isolated."
According to Mayo Clinic, tuberculosis is a serious illness that affects the lungs and is caused by a type of bacteria. It can spread through coughs or sneezes, as tiny droplets travel through the air. They can then be breathed in by another person. Symptoms include cough, fever, chest pain, night sweats, tiredness, and weight loss, among others. Tuberculosis can be fatal if not treated.
Zelich subsequently mentioned that the school officials reached out to the Pennsylvania Department of Health in Monessen to explore additional steps. "Upon assessing the circumstances, they confirmed that there is no immediate need for public health action in our district," Zelich added. "They have promised to keep us informed should any developments arise or if further public health actions become necessary."
While the situation in itself can be very worrying indeed, the school district soon received backlash from parents. They were outraged due to a previous December 27, 2024 statement shared by Zelich and the Charleroi Area School District, in which they stated that there were no tuberculosis cases confirmed.
"The Pennsylvania Department of Health has stated that there are currently no active tuberculosis cases among students or staff within the Charleroi Area School District," the announcement says. "We urge our community to seek information from credible official sources."
Considering the student was diagnosed with tuberculosis a few weeks prior to Monday, January 13, it's not surprising that people are drawing comparisons between the two statements. "I can't believe they haven't taken down the post where they misled everyone," remarked one user. "This is disgraceful! Edward Zelich needs to step down right away," commented another. "Why are you attempting to hide information about a contagious disease??? ...can someone explain this?" questioned a third user.