Additional cases of TB linked with HMP Parc
Public Health Wales has identified two additional confirmed cases of TB linked with the cluster of cases in HMP Parc, Bridgend.
This brings the total number of cases under investigation who have been resident at HMP Parc to six. Three of these are no longer in the prison. The men diagnosed with TB have responded well to treatment, and pose no ongoing public health risk.
TB is difficult to catch, and requires close and prolonged contact with an infectious individual for a person to become infected. The infection can be treated with antibiotics and complete cure is possible in most instances.
Public Health Wales is working with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, HMP Parc and Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service to undertake screening at the prison, and as part of a routine response to a situation of this nature the incident has been classified as an outbreak.
Investigations will continue and additional advice or screening will be provided if it is needed.
Dr Gwen Lowe, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said:
“As part of our investigations, we have identified two additional TB cases linked with the cluster in HMP Parc. We have revised the response status accordingly, but we are reassuring staff and prisoners that this is a usual step in our response to incidents of this nature.
“TB is difficult to catch. It requires close, prolonged contact with someone who is infectious for a person to become infected. The infection can be treated with antibiotics, and a complete cure is possible in most instances.”
TB is an infection usually affecting the lungs, but any part of the body can be affected. Anyone can catch TB by breathing in the bacteria in tiny droplets sneezed or coughed out by someone who has TB in their lungs. But this requires prolonged and close contact.
The most common symptom of TB in adults is a persistent cough. Other symptoms can include weight loss, a high temperature, and sweating, particularly at night.
Anyone who is concerned about their health should speak to their GP or contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47.
More information on tuberculosis is available from the Public Health Wales website at:
http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/888/page/43877