MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Friday announced he has authorized emergency funding for the Alabama Department of Public Health’s (ADPH) ongoing response efforts to the Tuberculosis outbreak. The Governor has authorized more than $235,000 in emergency funding for the testing, follow-up and treatment of residents in Perry County.
“We are dealing with a very aggressive TB outbreak in Perry County, and it is important that the Alabama Department of Public Health have all available resources to help treat and mitigate this disease,” Governor Bentley said. “As a doctor, I know the importance of treating
Robert Bentley
any disease early and often, and as Alabama’s governor, I have resources to help. I approved emergency funding to ADPH specifically to assist with TB screenings and treatments. I hope with this extra funding, we will be able to contain this outbreak from spreading into other parts of the state and treat those with Tuberculosis.”
Since TB screening began on Jan. 11, more than 2,000 patients have been tested. A total of 151 patients have Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI). The patients with LTBI are being treated with preventive medication. Public health officials have stressed that preventing and treating TB will save lives.
“We are actively working to reduce the number of TB cases in Marion and other surrounding areas, and I greatly appreciate the Governor’s support in our efforts,” Acting State Health Officer Dr. Tom Miller said. “TB is a very serious disease, and employees at the ADPH are working hard to identify and test residents in Perry County with the disease. We are dealing with an unusual outbreak, and it is important that we take a unique approach to addressing this problem. Governor Bentley’s proactive efforts to provide additional aid are a testament to his dedication as both governor and a physician.”
Symptoms of TB include a cough lasting more than two weeks, shortness of breath, fever, night sweats, weight loss and fatigue. A person may be infected with the TB germ and have no symptoms. Fortunately, patients can be treated preventively before becoming ill.
Testing for TB is done at the Perry County Health Department which is located at 1748 S. Washington St.in Marion. All services are confidential and are provided at no charge.
Media Release/Office of Alabama Governor Robert Bentley
