TB Screenings Information

What is TB?
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain. If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal.

What is a TB skin test?
A TB test will tell you if you have ever had TB germs in the body. A harmless fluid is placed under your arm with a small needle. After the test is administered, you must return to the clinic so that the nurse can look at the test spot on your arm. This is called a TB read.

What is the fee for a TB skin test?

TB skin tests are $5. Health Services accepts credit card, debit, or exact cash.

Why do I need two TB skin tests?
If you work or will be placed in a medical setting for your program, you may require the two step TB skin test to ensure a more accurate reading/result.

Are there other options for a TB clearance?

MJC employees may fulfill the TB clearance requirement with a TB Risk Assessment questionnaire. These can be conducted with a nurse over the phone or in person by appointment.

A nurse can order a lab test called Quantiferon Gold. You can obtain the lab slip from a nurse in Health Services and visit Quest Diagnostics for the lab test. Contact Health Services to make an appointment.

If your TB skin test is positive or you have a history of a positive TB skin test, you may need a chest x-ray. MJC employees must call HR for more information. Students can meet with a nurse in Heath Services to receive more information about obtaining a chest x-ray.

What days do you do TB Screenings/Tests?
Please refer to TB Hours page.

When can I return for the TB read?
You must be able to return 48-72 hours after the TB test is placed. Please keep in mind our hours of operation for TB readings (refer to TB Hours). If you fail to return and you request another test, you must pay a $15 fee.

Can I set up an appointment for TB Screenings/Test?

Yes, in-person TB skin tests are available by appointment. Please contact our office for available appointment dates and times.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention Basic TB Facts

How does TB Spread?
TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The TB bacteria are put into the air when a person with TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.

TB is NOT spread by

- shaking someone's hand
- sharing food or drink
- touching bed linens or toilet seats
- sharing toothbrushes
- kissing

TB Symptoms

Symptoms of TB disease include:

- a bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
- pain in the chest
- coughing up blood or sputum
- weakness or fatigue
- weight loss
- no appetite
- chills
- fever
- sweating at night
TB Risk Factors

Once a person is infected with TB bacteria, the chance of developing TB disease is higher if the person:
- Has HIV infection
- Has been recently infected with TB bacteria (in the last 2 years)
- Has other health problems, like diabetes, that make it hard for the body to fight bacteria
- Abuses alcohol or uses illegal drugs
- Was not treated correctly for TB infection in the past
Exposure to TB

If you think you have been exposed to someone with TB disease, contact your health care provider or local health department to see if you should be tested for TB infection. Be sure to tell the doctor or nurse when you spent time with the person who has TB disease.

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