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MARION, Ala. (AP) — State health officials say 47 residents of Perry County have tested positive for tuberculosis amid an outbreak of the bacterial infection.
The Alabama Department of Public Health said in a statement Monday that 798 Perry County residents were tested for TB over three days. Those who tested positive will receive further testing and treatment.
The announcement comes about a week after state officials said 20 people in the county seat of Marion had been diagnosed and three had died.
A community meeting is planned Tuesday at a church in Marion. Health department representatives will update residents about the outbreak and screening program. The agency is paying people who get tested and follow up on recommended treatments.
Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever and fatigue.
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