Gov. Bentley Authorizes Funds to Combat TB Outbreak

Gov. Robert Bentley has authorized emergency funding in the Alabama Department of Public Health’s continued effort to combat the Tuberculosis outbreak in Perry County. More than $235,000 in emergency funding will be used for testing, follow-up and treatment of residents.

2,000 people have been screened for TB since testing began on January 11th. 151 patients have tested positive for Latent Tuberculosis Infection. They are being treated with preventive medication, according to ADPH officials.

Symptoms of TB include a cough lasting more than two weeks, shortness of breath, fever, night sweats, weight loss and fatigue. A person may be infected with the TB germ and have no symptoms. Fortunately, patients can be treated preventively before becoming ill.

Testing for TB is done at the Perry County Health Department which is located at 1748 S. Washington St.in Marion. All services are confidential and are provided at no charge.