Deadly Tuberculosis Outbreak Sparks Concern in Perry County

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

A deadly outbreak of Tuberculosis in Marion has sparked health concerns for some people in Perry County.

State health officials say they’re trying to stop the spread of the disease by paying people to get tested and treated.

They say there have been 20 cases of TB in Marion since 2014 and three adults have died.

T-B testing will be available January 11 – 29 at the Perry County Health Department from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. They’re urging people in the community to get tested.

“Well, the thing about it is it doesn’t make sense to have ability to get tested and the means to be tested and don’t get tested,” said Marion resident DeSean Howard.

Health officials say the money for the cash incentive — comes from a federal grant through the Center for Disease Control.