A person associated with Van Buskirk Elementary School in Tucson has tested positive for tuberculosis, prompting health officials to assess pupils and staff who may have been exposed.
The Tucson Unified School District informed families on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, saying it was working with the Pima County Health Department to identify people who may have had significant contact with the individual.
The person’s identity has not been disclosed. The district said the case involved active tuberculosis, which can spread through the air between people who share indoor spaces for prolonged periods.
Officials stressed that the incident was not being treated as an emergency by the Pima County Health Department’s Tuberculosis Control Programme.
Students and staff found to have been infected will undergo further testing and may be offered medication to prevent the infection developing into active TB disease, according to the district.
Public health officials are expected to contact anyone who requires testing or further advice. The district said tuberculosis is treatable and curable.
Van Buskirk Elementary School is located on East Fair Street in Tucson. Families with concerns have been directed to the school’s health office or the Pima County Health Department’s Tuberculosis Control Programme.
