TB Contact Investigation at MSU Denver Finds No Evidence of Transmission

Contact:  Denver Public Health, Rachel Brand: 303-602-3718 or Metropolitan State University, Tim Caroll: 303-605-5562

Denver Public Health (DPH) and Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) successfully partnered to test the majority of faculty and students who were potentially exposed to tuberculosis (TB) on campus this spring. The authorities did not find any evidence of transmission. 

“We continue to encourage anyone who did not complete testing to come to our clinic for a free and confidential evaluation,” said Dr. Bob Belknap, director of the Denver Metro TB Clinic.

On March 15, DPH officials launched an investigation into a potential TB exposure at MSU Denver.  All faculty, staff and students who might have been exposed to an individual with active TB were contacted.  Throughout the investigation, it remained safe to attend classes.

Tuberculosis Facts:

TB is a disease caused by germs that are spread between people through the air. It usually affects the lungs but may also affect other parts of the body.

• Most people who are exposed to TB do not get infected.
• People who are infected cannot give TB to others unless they are sick with symptoms such as cough, fever, or night sweats.
• A person who is infected but is not sick can receive treatment to prevent them from getting sick and spreading TB to family and friends in the future.

Learn more about TB at the Denver Metro TB Clinic’s website, CO-HELP at 303-389-1687 or contact your primary care provider.