Tuberculosis Testing (TB)
Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) and while most commonly found in the lungs, TB can attack any part of the body. TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The TB bacteria enter the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected. Not everyone infected with TB will become sick.
TB is NOT spread by:
- skin-to-skin contact (shaking hands)
- sharing food or drink
- touching items worn by someone with TB
- sharing toothbrushes
Testing for TB
The health department offers two types of TB tests.
TB Skin Test ($25): A TB skin tests requires two visits: The first to have a small amount of tuberculin fluid injected under the skin on the inside of the arm. The second visit must take place 48-72 hours later to have the test read. If you are unable to return during that time for a reading, you will have to have the test repeated.
IGRA ($65, insurance accepted): An Interferon-Gamma Release Assay is a blood test used to detect TB infection. The QuantiFeron TB Test measures immune response to TB using a blood sample. This test requires a single visit and is not affected by prior BCG vaccination.
TB Tests are scheduled by appointment. To schedule a TB Test, please contact your local health department office at 906-482-7382.
Who Should get Tested for TB?
- are HIV positive or have another condition that weakens the immune system
- have symptoms of active TB disease
- are from a country where active TB disease is very common
- live in a facility where active TB disease may be more common
- inject illegal drugs
- travel to a country with a high incidence of TB
For additional information regarding TB testing, please contact your local health department office or visit: