TUBERCULOSIS/TB PROGRAM
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious illness that mainly affects the lungs. The germs that cause tuberculosis are bacteria.
Tuberculosis can spread when a person with the illness coughs, sneezes, or sings. This can put tiny droplets with the germs into the air. Another person can then breathe in the droplets, and the germs enter the lungs.
Tuberculosis spreads easily in crowded settings, such as when people gather in large groups or live in close quarters. People with HIV/AIDS and other people with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of catching tuberculosis than people with typical immune systems.
Drugs called antibiotics can treat tuberculosis. But some forms of the bacteria no longer respond well to treatments.
SYMPTOMS OF TUBERCULOSIS
TB symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the part of the body affected. Common symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. In some cases, TB can spread to other parts of the body, causing symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and neurological problems.
TESTING FOR TUBERCULOSIS
We offer 2 types of testing:
We offer TB skin tests on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday during normal business hours. Please note that TB skin tests are not administered on Thursdays, during clinic closures due to holidays or inclement weather.
We provide TB skin tests to individuals who need them for employment, school/clinical settings, or other reasons.
**It is required to return to our office to read the test 48-72 hours after it is administered.
Please call our office at 660-747-6121 to schedule your appointment.
