The disease is infectious if not treated.
A new report released by the Department of Health and Human Services shows that nearly 2,500 migrant children with latent tuberculosis infections were released into communities in 44 states over the past year. Approximately 126,000 children were released in total, indicating an infection rate of 1 in 50 migrant children.
Treatment for the illness reportedly takes from three to nine months. The federal government releases children to sponsors in a short period of time, notifying local health authorities to follow up with treatment to prevent active infection.
Tuberculosis isn’t the only infection many children carry. The government has had to establish a protocol for handling chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. The report said the department has no “secure” shelters where children could be specifically cared for.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Becerra to be led by the Lord as he heads the department’s handling of infected migrant children.
- For HHS workers as they seek to care for minors with serious diseases.
- For the ill children who are being brought into this nation and released to sponsors.
Sources: ABC News, Washington Times
