7 cases of tuberculosis in poultry plants in Alabama reported; test scheduled

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) says seven cases of confirmed or suspected tuberculosis have been reported among people who worked in poultry plants in four Alabama counties.

As a result, ADPH is testing people in Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence and Lauderdale counties for the disease, also known as TB, which attacks the lungs.

Anyone who has worked in the poultry industry in these counties since June 2022, or who currently works there, will be asked to be screened through a blood test. According to ADPH, the reported cases have not been limited to any particular race or ethnic group.

Tuberculosis is a type of bacteria that is usually spread from one infected person’s lungs to another’s through activities such as talking or coughing. However, it is not transferred in food. It can be treated with antibiotics and is almost always cured, according to ADPH. Anyone of any age can become infected, and those infected may be very ill or may show no symptoms.

For each eligible person who completes the test, a $20 gift card is offered.

Testing will be available on the following days and locations from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

Lauderdale County Health Department, 4112 Chisholm Road, Florence; Monday 7 August and Wednesday 9 August. Call (256) 764-7453 for more information.

Colbert County Health Department, 1000 S. Jackson Highway, Sheffield; Thursday, August 10. Call (256) 383-1231 for more information.

Lawrence County Health Department, 13299 Alabama Highway 157, Moulton; Monday, August 14. Call (256) 974-1141 for more information.

Franklin County Health Department, 801 County Road 48, Russellville; Thursday 17 August. Call (256) 332-2700 for more information.