San Diego City Wire

San Diego County's Tuberculosis Control Program and the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) are notifying riders of potential tuberculosis (TB) exposure on the Trolley Blue Line between January 27, 2024, and February 29, 2024. The notification aims to inform passengers who may be at risk.

The likelihood of prolonged cumulative exposure is low due to inconsistent hours of potential exposure. TB infection risk increases with many hours of indoor exposure to an infected person. Brief interactions pose a lower risk but may still concern immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV or on immune-weakening medications.

The county emphasizes the importance of awareness for immunocompromised riders to make informed health decisions with their medical providers. Individuals with active TB often remain unaware and contagious for months before diagnosis. Upon receiving test results, communicable disease investigators conduct interviews to determine the extent and locations of possible exposures.

"Symptoms of active TB include persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss," stated Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County Public Health Officer. "Most people who become infected after exposure do not get sick right away. This is called latent TB infection." Blood tests and skin tests effectively identify TB infections.

Those testing positive for TB without symptoms should get a chest x-ray and consult a medical provider about latent TB infection treatment. Medications can cure latent infections and prevent future illness.

Individuals with active TB symptoms or compromised immune systems should seek medical evaluation to rule out active tuberculosis and discuss treatment options.

Active TB cases in San Diego County have risen since 2020 after decades of decline. The number of cases increased from 193 in 2020 to 243 in 2023. An estimated 175,000 county residents have latent TB infection; five to ten percent may develop active disease without preventive treatment.

For more information on potential exposure or assessing personal risk for TB infection, contact the County Tuberculosis Control Program at (619) 692-8621.

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