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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

Overview

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends TB testing for people at increased risk for TB infection. These may include those who:

  • Live with or spend time with someone who has TB.
  • Were born in or lived in countries where TB is common.
  • Live or have lived in crowded conditions where TB can easily spread, such as nursing homes, homeless shelters, or correctional facilities.
  • Work in a place where TB can easily spread, such as a hospital or nursing home.
  • Have a weakened immune system from a health condition or from certain medicines.

You may also be tested for TB if you have HIV or other medical problems, if you inject illegal drugs, or before starting certain medicines.

If you are at high risk, screening for latent TB (bacteria are present but inactive) can lead to early treatment to prevent it from becoming active TB.

Credits

Current as of: June 12, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Main Street Pediatrics now offers the latest Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine, recommended by the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics for ages 6 months and above. Please call our office to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine visit for your child. For more details read our recent blog post.