Santa Maria-Area Man With Tuberculosis Sought

A local man is being sought by police and medical personnel because he has a drug-resistant case of tuberculosis.

An arrest warrant was issued for 24-year old Agustin Zeferino. Doctors believe his condition creates a serious health risk for those who come into close contact with him. Tuberculosis is spread through the air from one individual to another.

“With appropriate treatment, tuberculosis can be cured. Without treatment, it is often fatal and poses a public health threat due to airborne transmission.This is particularly true to drug resistant cases. If Mr. Zerferino is contagious and he is out in our community, it is a public health emergency,” said Santa Barbara County Health Officer Dr. Charity Thornan.

Zeferino was counseled about his medical condition and was given information about the serious nature of his health condition, but he has discontinued treatment, and it is not known where he is in northern Santa Barbara County.

Police have asked anyone who might know his location call 911.