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 then stated that the school authorities contacted the Pennsylvania Department of Health in Monessen to discuss further measures. "After reviewing the situation, they confirmed that no public health action is currently necessary for our district," Zelich continued. "They have assured us they will promptly notify us if any changes occur or additional public health measures are needed."
Outrage
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 confirmed that there are no active tuberculosis cases involving Charleroi Area School District students or staff members," reads the statement. "We encourage our community to rely on verified information from official sources."
Given that the student was diagnosed with tuberculosis weeks before Monday, January 13, it is understandable that many could associate and contrast both statements. "Can't believe they left the post up where they lied about it," one user said. "This is pathetic! Edward Zelich should resign immediately," another user said. "Why you trying to cover up an infectious disease??? ...please make it make sense," a third user said.
