County Health Officials Believe Vista Murrieta Student Has Tuberculosis

A Vista Murrieta High School student is suspected of having active tuberculosis, but Riverside County health officials said there are no indications the illness is connected to a similar case at the school late last year.

The student is receiving treatment is expected to recover, although the individual will not return to school until a medical clearance is issued. The teen is not being identified due to confidentiality requirements.

Riverside County health officials are working with school and district representatives to identify students and staff who may have been exposed. Those who are identified as being at risk will receive an email notice and phone call from the school within the next few days. There will also be a written notice mailed to those individuals from the health department.

As a precautionary measure, the Health Department is recommending that anyone who receives the notice be screened with a TB skin test at a clinic being planned at the school.

Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Cameron Kaiser emphasized the risk of transmission is very low.

“While the risk of infection is slight, it is important that those who are notified take the time to get tested,” Kaiser said. “It will provide peace of mind for those who are concerned about being exposed or begin the next step in the evaluation process.”

The latest incident follows a similar case in which a Vista Murrieta High School student was diagnosed with active tuberculosis in October. More than 200 students and staff were tested for the illness and no other active cases were found. The student is recovering and has returned to class.