Broome County Jail Precautions Continue After Inmate Hospitalized

Officials say enhanced health precautions remain in effect at the Broome County Jail following an inmate's hospitalization due to potential respiratory problems.

The sick inmate was evaluated by medical staff at the town of Dickinson facility on December 4. The inmate was sent to a hospital for testing and treatment under the supervision of the county health department.

According to an update provided Monday by county officials, the inmate tested negative for tuberculosis at intake and again in a follow-up blood test.

Although the inmate showed no symptoms of active TB, preventative measures were implemented by the health department.

The action included TB testing for all inmates and jail staff who may have come into contact with the person who was hospitalized.

County officials said blood tests showed no instances of active TB. There were several instances of latent tuberculosis infection, which shows no symptoms and cannot be spread to others.

The health department reported "multiple active" TB cases in Broome County residents with more than 50 people now being treated for latent tuberculosis infection.

In a news release, county director of public health Olivia Catalano said "TB is treatable and more common in our community than you may think."

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.