UNT Incident FAQ

When did UNT learn about this incidence?
UNT was informed by the Denton County Health Department on Feb. 11. The university immediately responded by working with the health department to assist in investigating the case and determining who has the highest risk for possible exposure. The university also immediately began developing information for dissemination to the UNT community as soon as possible.
It is important to note that the individual who was diagnosed with TB has not been on campus since late January, when medical treatment began.

What does it mean when you say “may have been in contact with?” Does that mean a casual greeting once a week or does it mean daily contact such as in a classroom or residence hall?
Generally it means casual contact on a regular basis such as in a classroom, residence hall or other confined space.

As part of the Denton County Health Department’s investigation into this incident, students, faculty and staff who have been designated as possible “close” or “casual” contacts have been contacted directly by UNT. These groups have the greatest potential for having been exposed. If you have not been contacted by UNT as a potential “close” or “casual” contact, your risk of exposure is likely very low.

The risk of exposure is based on how much time someone spent with an infected individual, and where they saw that individual. Talking to an infected individual once outside poses much lower risk than talking to an infected individual every day for hours in a car. Passing an infected individual in a hallway or on campus or being near the person in a large room such as a cafeteria presents low risk of infection.

However, if you have concerns, or begin to notice symptoms, please see your personal doctor or a physician at the UNT Student Health and Wellness Center as soon as possible. If you have questions, please call (940) 369-8181.

Is it safe to remain on campus and in my dorm?
Yes. This is an isolated case and persons who have been identified as possible close contacts have been notified and are being asked to work with County Health Department and UNT physicians to ensure they have not been infected.

Why are you putting this information out to everyone on campus if it is an isolated incident?
TB is a highly contagious disease and we want to help ensure the safety and health of all members of the UNT community. We want each person on campus to understand the situation and know that medical help is available.

If I want to get tested, what does it cost?
Testing is provided free of charge through the Denton County Health Department. Individuals identified as a possible close or casual contact also may seek free testing at UNT with a copy of the notification.

Are there any other cases of highly contagious disease on campus that I need to be concerned about?
Unfortunately, most diseases, including the common cold, are contagious. However, UNT takes every reasonable step to educate our community about preventative measures as well as offering help through the UNT Student Health and Wellness Center when an illness occurs.

I thought TB had been eradicated. How did this person become infected?
TB rates in the United States are very, very low. However, it does exist and due to its highly contagious nature, when a case is found, the state health department is required to monitor the individual and help prevent the spread of the disease.