The superintendent of the Tri-County Regional School Board is commending public health for quickly identifying and treating a student with infectious tuberculosis.
The student, whose identity and gender have not been revealed, attends Shelburne Regional High School.
A letter was sent home to parents this week.
Paul Ash says he understands there may be significant concerns but has been told the ongoing risk is low.
“There was limited threat to the larger community and in this situation it was positive turnout or result for the student involved.”
Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria affecting the lungs and is spread from one person to another through sneezing or coughing.
Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, fever, loss of appetite, chest pain and cough.
“We were immediately concerned about the health and safety of the students in our school and given the experience I’ve had working with Public Health over the situation in this end of the province I’m extremely confident they have handled this situation quite well.”
The Nova Scotia Health Authority says an average of eight people are diagnosed with tuberculosis annually.
