Tuberculosis Scare Leads to 300 Tests at Walton, but No Positive Cases Beyond Sole Student

After testing nearly 300 students and staff at Walton High School for tuberculosis (TB), officials confirmed that all results came back negative, with no additional positive cases beyond the initial student. Valerie S. Crow from Cobb & Douglas Public Health noted that any positive test result would have required the individual to undergo a chest X-ray to check for active TB. If inactive, preventative medication would be offered; active cases would receive immediate treatment.

In line with TB protocol, all tested students and staff will complete a follow-up test in eight to ten weeks, with scheduling details forthcoming from the school. Those identified for testing who could not attend the on-site screening are required to get tested by their own healthcare providers and provide proof before returning to school.

While specific exposure details remain confidential under privacy laws, TB generally spreads through airborne bacteria, predominantly affecting the lungs. Roughly a quarter of the global population carries TB bacteria, though only a small percentage—5–10%—develop symptoms.

Rising TB rates have concerned public health officials, with the CDC reporting an increase from 2.5 to 2.9 cases per 100,000 people between 2022 and 2023. Globally, TB caused 1.25 million deaths last year, nearly double those from HIV. In Georgia, cases rose by 18% in 2022, with DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties accounting for almost half of the state’s 262 cases.

For more information on TB exposure, visit cdc.gov/tb/exposure.