Prognosis Good for TB Patient

"He has a number of features that make us optimistic about the potential outcome of his treatment"

The Atlanta lawyer quarantined with a dangerous strain of tuberculosis could soon be allowed to make escorted trips outside his room if a crucial test finds him no danger to others.

Andrew Speaker has had two negative tests for the bacteria in his sputum, a mixture of saliva and phlegm. Results of the third test were expected this week, hospital spokesman William Allstetter said in a statement.

If the third test is also negative, Speaker would be considered 'relatively noncontagious' and could be allowed brief, escorted trips outside his room wearing a mask, Allstetter said. But such a finding would not mean that Speaker cannot transmit the disease, and the bacteria could still grow in Speaker's lungs and sputum, Allstetter said. Read more