The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) issued an advisory on Friday after confirming that a faculty member from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Nursing tested positive for active tuberculosis (TB). The employee works in a non‑clinical classroom at the university’s Shadow Lane Campus, a location that serves many nursing students and staff.
Limited exposure risk
According to SNHD, the risk of exposure appears to be limited to individuals who had prolonged or repeated close contact with the infected employee. “Based on the preliminary information available, the exposure risk is likely limited to individuals who had prolonged or repeated close contact with the employee,” a health‑district spokesperson said.
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes over an extended period. It is not transmitted by touching surfaces or objects. The disease can be treated effectively with a course of antibiotics when caught early.
Local TB context
Clark County sees roughly 70 active TB cases each year, a figure that reflects the broader national trend of low rates compared with many parts of the world. While about a quarter of the global population has been infected with the TB bacteria at some point, the United States maintains one of the lowest infection rates worldwide.
Typical symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough that may produce blood, fever, night sweats, and unintended weight loss. However, many people with the infection remain asymptomatic, which is why public‑health monitoring and contact tracing are essential.
Contact tracing and testing
SNHD will notify anyone identified as a close contact of the infected faculty member. Those individuals will receive information about the screening process and, if necessary, will be scheduled for TB testing. The health district emphasizes that testing is free and confidential.
“If it is determined you need to be tested, SNHD will contact you directly and arrange testing,” the advisory noted.
UNLV response and resources
UNLV has activated its campus health services to support students, faculty, and staff who may be affected. The university is making a range of resources available, including counseling, medical referrals, and guidance on how to protect oneself from further exposure.
Students and employees are encouraged to stay informed through official university communications and to follow any instructions from health officials promptly.
What residents should know
While the situation is being closely monitored, health officials advise the public not to panic. TB is treatable, and the limited exposure scenario reduces the likelihood of a wider outbreak. Residents who have concerns about TB symptoms or who believe they may have been in close contact with the infected individual should contact the Southern Nevada Health District at (702) 385‑8000.
For more information on TB prevention, testing locations, and treatment options, visit the SNHD website or the UNLV Student Health Center.
Original reporting: KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
