Tuberculosis Exposure at Sydney Childcare Centre Sparks Urgent Health Response

More than 100 children and 34 staff members at Little Feet Early Learning and Childcare in Waverly, Sydney, are undergoing tuberculosis (TB) testing after an individual who tested positive for the disease attended the centre regularly over a six-month period.

According to NSW Health, the person was present at the service three days a week between February and August, prompting immediate action to assess potential exposure. A makeshift clinic was swiftly established on-site to facilitate testing and minimize disruption for families.

Parents were notified via email on Friday, though many expressed concern over the lack of clarity in the communication. The centre did not disclose whether the infected individual was a child or educator, nor did it specify which days they were present. This has led to heightened anxiety among families, particularly given the prolonged exposure window.

In response, NSW Health hosted a webinar to reassure families, emphasizing that the risk of transmission is low. The department is continuing to monitor the situation and provide support to affected families.

This incident underscores the importance of transparent communication, rapid health coordination, and robust infection control protocols in early childhood settings. It also raises broader questions about how services can better prepare for and respond to communicable disease risks while maintaining trust and emotional safety for children, educators, and families alike.

What Causes Tuberculosis?

• TB spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings.

• You usually need prolonged close contact to catch it.

• Not everyone who breathes in TB bacteria gets sick—some develop latent TB, where the bacteria stay dormant.

Symptoms of Active TB

If TB becomes active, symptoms can include:

• Persistent cough (lasting more than 2–3 weeks)

• Coughing up blood or mucus

• Chest pain

• Fever, chills, and night sweats

• Fatigue or weakness

• Loss of appetite and weight loss

Treatment

• TB is treatable with a long course of antibiotics, usually lasting 6–9 months.

• Drug-resistant TB may require stronger medications and longer treatment.

• Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to recovery.

Reference:
More Than 100 Children At Sydney Childcare Exposed to Tuberculosis