World Tuberculosis (TB) Day
As we approach World TB Day, the Nevada TB Program would like to provide a reminder that tuberculosis infection and disease can happen anywhere and to anyone. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created a campaign called “Think.Test.Treat TB” for the public and healthcare providers to increase TB awareness and help identify risk factors for TB infection. Materials for the campaign include brochures in multiple languages, posters, fact sheets, graphics, and conversation guides which can be downloaded here.
Here is a breakdown of the campaign, adapted from the link above:
- THINK: Am I at risk for TB infection?
Individuals at higher risk include:
- Born or frequently travel to countries where TB is common, such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Live/work currently or previously in large group settings such as homeless shelters, prisons, and jails.
- Have a weaker immune system due to certain medications or medical conditions, including diabetes*, cancer, and HIV.
*Diabetes mellitus comorbidity was found in 38% of 2021 Nevada TB cases per CDC National TB Disease Data.*
2. TEST: What TB test is needed?
Explain the TB infection testing process:
- There are two types of tests for latent TB infection: TB blood test and TB skin test.
- The TB blood test can be done in one visit, and it is the most accurate if vaccinated with BCG in the past.
After receiving the results, talk with the person about the results and next steps, like examination, chest x-ray, and other lab work.
3. TREAT: What are the treatment options?
If an individual is positive for TB infection, it is critical to recommend shorter and more convenient treatments. Short-course Rifamycin-based regimens are the preferred treatment method. Completing TB infection treatment is necessary to prevent TB disease.
Other resources about how to identify and treat TB infection, TB disease, and latent TB infection (LTBI) can be found on the CDC’s Tuberculosis (TB) page.
Additional Healthcare Provider Resources
For questions on TB infection and disease diagnosis, treatment, and infection control, please contact your local health department or the state Division of Public and Behavioral Health TB program.
Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health Tuberculosis Website:
https://dpbh.nv.gov/Programs/TB/Tuberculosis_(TB)_Prevention,_Control_and_Elimination_Program_-Home/
Nevada TB Incidence Report, by Counties, Demographics: TB Fast Facts, retrievable at:
https://dpbh.nv.gov/Programs/TB/dta/Publications/Tuberculosis_(TB)_-_Publications/
Southern Nevada Health District Tuberculosis Program:
Washoe County Health District Tuberculosis Program:
https://www.washoecounty.gov/health/programs-and-services/cchs/tuberculosis/index.php