TUBERCULOSIS TESTING

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease which primarily affects the respiratory system. Simple skin testing can determine if you have the antibodies to TB. A negative result means you have not contacted TB. If you have a positive TB skin test you have been exposed to TB and have antibodies in your system. 

You will need to have a chest x-ray if you have a positive test to determine if you have an active infection. If your chest x-ray is negative you are not contagious, however, the physician may wish to discuss preventive treatment so that you don't develop active TB from your exposure. If you have had a positive skin test for TB in the past the skin test will not be repeated. You will need to have a chest x-ray to obtain your clearance for school or work.

Many people who were raised out of this country were given BCG vaccine in the past to prevent tuberculosis. This vaccine is not given in the United States. Receiving this vaccine can cause the TB test to be positive for years after the vaccination. To receive your clearance the SHS may require a chest x-ray depending on the length of time since you received your last vaccination.

Several university programs require testing as part of their entrance requirements and at specific intervals thereafter. The Student Health Center provides testing routinely.

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