Feb 20 • 11:05 UTC 🇮🇸 Iceland Visir

Two health care workers infected with tuberculosis

Two employees at a primary health care center in Iceland tested positive for tuberculosis during staff screenings, but are not showing symptoms and are not contagious.

In Iceland, two employees at the Heilsugæsla Miðbæ primary health care center have tested positive for tuberculosis (TB) during routine staff screenings, as reported by Vísir. According to the announcement, despite the presence of the bacteria, the individuals are asymptomatic and not contagious, meaning they do not pose a risk to others. This screening was initiated as a preventive measure after TB was detected among staff at the emergency department of Landspítali, the national hospital in Iceland.

Following the recent TB cases reported at the emergency department, the health authorities decided to conduct screenings among frontline staff at the Heilsugæsla höfuðborgarsvæðisins (Capital Area Health Care) to ensure safety and prevent further spread of the disease. The tests showed that the two affected employees had not exposed any patients or other staff members to the infection, alleviating concerns among patients who visit the primary health center. Screening was prioritized at sites where there was a chance of interaction with potentially infected individuals.

This incident highlights the importance of regular health monitoring in healthcare facilities and the quick action taken by health authorities in response to potential health risks. It emphasizes the commitment to maintaining patient safety and controlling any infectious disease outbreaks within the Icelandic healthcare system. The community remains encouraged to stay informed and vigilant regarding health screenings and the importance of reporting any symptoms without delay.

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