Symptoms

Tiredness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. When TB is in the lungs; cough, chest pain. and possibly coughing up blood.

Incubation Period

12-12 weeks

Mode of Transmission & Communicability

The bacteria is spread by droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing of infected persons. Only TB of the lung is communicable; from the onset of symptoms until adequate treatment, usually 1-3 weeks after treatment started.

School Action

1. Exclude children with TB of the lung until a physician states the child is no longer communicable.

2. Children with positive Mantoux tests, but without symptoms, refer for medical evaluation, do not exclude.

3. Report the case to the local health department. (Required by law)