One UNLV Nursing Worker Tests Positive for TB, District Investigates

The Southern Nevada Health District issued a public health advisory on Friday regarding an active tuberculosis case at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The positive test belonged to a School of Nursing employee who works in a non-clinical classroom on the Shadow Lane Campus.

SNHD stated that preliminary data suggests the exposure risk is confined to individuals who shared the same air with the employee for extended periods or had repeated close contact. Tuberculosis is a bacterial respiratory infection that is treatable. The district noted that touching surfaces or handling objects does not transmit the disease.

Clark County records approximately 70 active TB cases each year. While the infection is common globally, rates in the United States remain among the lowest in the world. Common symptoms include a chronic cough that may produce blood, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, though many people show no signs.

SNHD will notify identified close contacts directly to arrange screening and testing. The health district emphasized that most people exposed do not develop symptoms. Those who require testing will receive specific instructions from the district.

UNLV has released resources for students and staff seeking assistance related to the advisory. The university continues to operate at the Shadow Lane Campus while the investigation proceeds.

The next step involves SNHD completing its contact tracing to determine the full scope of potential exposure. No further public announcements are scheduled until that process concludes.