San Francisco health officials are investigating two cases of active tuberculosis linked to Crazy Horse, a longtime strip club on Market Street.
“These efforts continue and at this time the risk to the general public is low,” he said in a statement. “If this status changes, we will notify the public.”
Only people with active tuberculosis of the lungs or throat can spread the bacteria through the air, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bacteria can remain airborne for hours, depending on the environment.
Tuberculosis, commonly known as tuberculosis, is caused by bacteria that spreads through the air. Transmission usually requires prolonged exposure to a person with active tuberculosis and is more likely in crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
Only people with active tuberculosis of the lungs or throat can spread the bacteria through the air, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bacteria can remain airborne for hours, depending on the environment.
The city’s investigation aims to identify people who have had enough exposure to infected people to warrant testing or monitoring. Because TB bacteria grows slowly, a person who has been recently exposed may first test negative and then test positive. Repeat testing may be necessary several weeks after an initial test.
Tuberculosis infection can be latent or active. People with latent or inactive TB have the bacteria in their body but have no symptoms and cannot spread the disease. Active TB can cause symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, weight loss, fever and night sweats, according to the CDC.
People who think they may have been exposed to active tuberculosis should contact a health care provider or local health department about testing, the CDC advises.
The state reported 2,150 cases of tuberculosis in 2025, the highest number reported in the state since 2013, according to the California Department of Public Health. The state’s rate was 5.4 cases per 100,000 residents, compared to 3 nationally.
Active tuberculosis can be fatal without proper treatment, the CDC said.
Gn Health
