Broome County Officials Shut Down Tuberculosis Rumors After Inmate Hospitalized

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar is reassuring the community that there are no confirmed tuberculosis (TB) cases among individuals currently housed in the Broome County Correctional Facility.

According to Akshar, everyone entering the facility undergoes a comprehensive health screening, which includes TB testing. Individuals are quarantined until their results are received, following both state guidelines and facility policy. Over the past three years, no incarcerated person or detainee has tested positive.

One Incarcerated Individual Hospitalized for Respiratory Symptoms

Earlier this week, one incarcerated individual began showing symptoms similar to a respiratory illness and was taken to a local hospital for testing and treatment. The Broome County Health Department is supervising the medical evaluation. At this time, officials emphasize that this does not mean the individual has TB, and there continues to be zero confirmed TB cases within the facility.

Precautions and Guidelines Being Followed

Out of an abundance of caution, the Correctional Facility is working closely with the Broome County Health Department to follow all established health protocols. These measures are designed to protect not only those incarcerated but also corrections officers and the wider public. Sheriff Akshar expressed gratitude to the community for its patience and to the facility staff for their ongoing commitment to safety.

Health Department Urges Community Not to Panic

Olivia Catalano, Director of Public Health, is encouraging residents to remain calm, noting that respiratory illnesses circulate throughout the year. Conditions like flu, COVID-19, and RSV are currently present in the community and can spread easily. Her message is simple: wash your hands, stay home if you’re sick, and wear a mask if you’re experiencing symptoms. She also explained how HIPAA protects patient privacy and limits what information can be released publicly.

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Medical Director Explains TB Risk

Dr. Lazarus Gehring, Medical Director for Broome County Public Health, stressed that TB is slow-growing, and exposure does not automatically mean someone will become infected. Anyone who knows they’ve been exposed to a TB-positive individual can contact the health department for step-by-step guidance, testing resources, and education. He also praised the coordinated efforts of the local healthcare community in responding to TB concerns.