UCSD student tests positive for tuberculosis

A UC San Diego student tested positive for tuberculosis, prompting county health officials Wednesday to notify students, staffers and faculty members who may have been exposed.

The student last attended classes Feb. 19, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency.

Those who may have been exposed are being notified by e-mail, health officials said.

“HHSA and university officials are taking steps to identify all affected students and staff and notifying them of the potential exposure,” said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county’s public health officer.

“TB is treatable and curable, but most people who are exposed do not develop the disease,’’ she said. We recommend that individuals speak with their health care provider about getting tested.”

So far this year, there have been 19 cases of tuberculosis confirmed in San Diego County. In 2009, there were 223 cases of the disease reported locally.