The Health Center in Vaadhoo Island has begun testing patients and employees for tuberculosis, after a nurse tested positive for the strain.

A statement released by the Center said an expatriate nurse had tested positive for the strain and was confirmed last Thursday. The said nurse has been excluded from duties.

Tuberculosis -- or TB, as it’s commonly called -- is a contagious infection that usually attacks the lungs. It can also spread to other parts of the body, like the brain and spine.

The Center says that any individual who had been in contact with the nurse, including the residents in her home and patients who had sought treatment from the Center from six months back. The Center had appealed to all to immediately seek medical assistance, if symptoms are noted.

Vaadhoo Health Center adds the island had conducted vaccination programs, therefore, children who had been immunized are less likely to be infected.

The statement further adds information regarding TB is available at the Center.