Shenton Primary School

Tuberculosis at Shelton Primary School

15^th September 2025

Reference: 200823551

 Dear Parent or Carer,

Tuberculosis at Shenton Primary School

I am writing to inform you about a Tuberculosis (TB) situation that has arisen in the school. A person who attends Shenton Primary School has unfortunately been found to have an infectious form of TB. I want to reassure you that we are working closely with the school and that they have taken all possible steps to provide a safe environment, and to safeguard the welfare of all the children who attend.

Tuberculosis spreads when a person breathes in airborne germs released by someone with the disease who coughs or sneezes. Infection typically occurs after prolonged close contact in enclosed spaces, such as living in the same household as an infected person. In school settings, the risk of this level of exposure is very low. Importantly, TB cannot be spread through casual contact, touching, or sharing objects.  

The UK Health Security Agency, along with the school have now identified the children and staff who have had significant contact with the affected case and these individuals will be offered appointments for screening with the NHS TB Service.  Only staff and pupils who have had significant contact with the affected pupil currently require screening. 

Your child has not been identified as a close contact and therefore does not require screening at this time.

The symptoms of TB disease develop slowly in the body, and it usually takes several months for symptoms to appear. Common symptoms of TB include:

• Tiredness and lethargy,
• A prolonged persistent cough,
• High temperatures / fevers,
• Night sweats,
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Feeling generally unwell

If you think that your child may have these symptoms then please make an appointment to see your doctor without delay and show them this letter.  Alternatively, if you would like to speak to one of the TB nurses, please contact them on 0116 258 3767.  If you prefer you can speak to someone at the UK Health Security Agency by ringing 0344 2254 524 quoting reference number 200823551.

We will continue to work closely with the school and are taking all possible steps to provide a safe environment, and to safeguard the welfare of all the children who attend the school.

Yours sincerely,

Susanne Howes

Consultant in Health Protection.

For further information on tuberculosis please these links:

Tuberculosis (TB) - NHS

Tuberculosis - the disease, its treatment and prevention - GOV.UK