GRANT COUNTY, WA - As we recognize World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, Grant County Health District’s Investigations & Response team, the Grant County Health Officer, Dr. Alexander Brzezny, and the Grant County Board of Health, are proud to present the 2025 Spittoon Award. This award, inspired by historical TB prevention efforts, honors a healthcare provider, facility, or team for their dedication to fighting TB. 

2025 Spittoon Award Recipient 

This year’s recipient is the Confluence Health Infectious Diseases team. Through their expertise and commitment to addressing complex TB cases, the Confluence Health Infectious Diseases team has made a meaningful difference in patient care and improving outcomes.

Their continued collaboration with public health and support for TB control programs has been instrumental in driving progress toward our shared goal of eliminating this disease from our communities. Their work shows excellence, compassion, and leadership in the fight against TB. 

Grant County Health District extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Confluence Health Infectious Diseases team, including Dr. Mark Johnson, Dr. Ahmad Musmar, Dr. Moises Vargas Mena, and staff, for their invaluable partnership and support in the ongoing battle against TB. 

 About World Tuberculosis Day

Today, March 24, is World TB Day. On this day in 1882, Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB. Dr. Koch's discovery was the most important step taken toward the prevention and treatment of this deadly disease.

Learn about the history of the spittoon and how they are related to TB: https://bit.ly/SpittoonHistory 

Learn more about Tuberculosis: https://www.cdc.gov/tb/