Extensively Drug Resistant Tuberculosis

In 2007, a U.S. air traveler sparked interested in this rate type of TB that is resistant to almost all drugs. From May 12 to May 24, 2007, the traveler took two trans-Atlantic flights.

Once he returned to the U.S., the Denver Health Authority Public Health Department issued an order that required the patient to be detained at National Jewish Medical and Research Center until further laboratory tests indicated that he was no longer contagious.

CDC recommended passengers and crew on the flights the patient took be notified of potential exposure to tuberculosis and evaluated for TB. CDC also provided input and consultation to appropriate authorities on the diagnosis, management, and methods for preventing the spread of communicable disease.