This news item expired on Sunday, August 31, 2014 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed one inmate has an active case of tuberculosis “TB”. Tuberculosis is a serious infection of the lungs. While serious, TB can be successfully treated.
The inmate has been isolated and is undergoing treatment. He will continue to be tested and treated until he is no longer contagious.
Buncombe County Detention Center, in partnership with Buncombe County Health and Human Services is working closely with staff to educate them about the signs and symptoms of tuberculosis and the importance of testing. Health staff are testing staff and inmates who may have come in contact with this inmate.
For those staff and inmates that have not been identified as close contacts, but still wish to be screened, arrangements are being made to conduct tuberculosis screening.
In addition, letters will be sent to any inmates that have been released that may have been in close contact during their stay.
For communicable disease information, please contact 828-250-5109