Two inmates were isolated in a medical unit on Friday after it was suspected they had the disease. One of the cases was confirmed on Monday while testing on the other inmate is pending, Caldwell said.
The medical unit is a high pressure cell that has its own ventilation unit, he said.
The two inmates were in G block at the jail, which holds up to 64 inmates. The inmates and staff are being tested.
“It’s going to be anybody’s guess who’s been assigned to or been around these guys during the time they have been here,” Caldwell said. “I will say 75 percent of our staff will have to be tested. Because even the field operations guys, they come in the jail all the time.”
The county is providing the testing, which begins with a skin test and then an X-ray.
Others who could be tested include attorneys, probation officers and courthouse staff.
The tests will be conducted at the jail.
Tuberculosis is caused by a bacterium that usually attacks the lungs, but it can also affect the kidney, spine and brain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If not treated properly, it can be fatal.
TB is spread through the air, often when a person with TB coughs or sneezes, according to the CDC.
Hays had a couple of inmates with bacterial meningitis, and wouldn't even admit they had the disease, must less test any of the officers...