At 5:09 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, Marion Paden, Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services, notified students, staff and faculty via email that an OCCC student on campus has been diagnosed with an active case of tuberculosis.

According to the email, the college had spoken with the Oklahoma City and County Health Department and released all information in regards to whom the student had been in contact with. Affected students, faculty and staff also were informed.

“OCCC is committed to the safety and health of all students, staff, faculty and visitors,” Paden said in an interview. “The email was sent to curtail any rumors or concerns that might occur as a result of any … lack of information. Everyone has been notified by the OCCHD directly if there are any concerns regarding possible exposure or contagion.”

Adela Rico, pre-education major, said she isn’t concerned.

“I was fine after reading the email,” Rico said. “You should investigate before you start assuming.”

Patti Decker, sonography major, said she planned to go about her day in a normal manner.

“If I haven’t been contacted, then it doesn’t concern me,” Decker said. “I’m not at risk.”

Diane Wermy, intervention specialist from the Tuberculous Control Center, and Charge Nurse Charlotte Kimberling visited OCCC Wednesday, Dec. 4, to share information with Paden and faculty members.

“The risk of contagion is minimal,” said Paden. “You have to have close prolonged contact with an individual — not in an elevator or classroom.”

For more information, email Paden at mpaden@occc.edu.