What is Tuberculosis (TB) and how does it spread?

TB is a communicable disease caused by the bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is spread primarily by tiny airborne particles expelled by a person who has infectious TB. Coughing, sneezing, talking or singing spreads the particles. If another person inhales these particles, infection may occur. About 10% of infected people will develop TB disease at some point in their lives. However, the risk is considerably higher for people who are immunosuppressed (the very young, the elderly, those with HIV or cancer, among others). So, in healthy people, 90%of people infected withTB are asymptomatic or have latent TB. People with latent TB are not infectious and cannot spread the disease.

What are the symptoms of active TB infection?

Early symptoms of TB can develop 1-6 months after infection with the disease. These symptoms can include: fever, weight loss, cough, chest pain, bloody mucous, night sweats, and chills.

How do I know if I have TB or have been exposed to TB?

The primary test for TB is the Tuberulin skin test (PPD). This is when a small amount (.1 ml) of purified tuberculin protein is injected just under the skin on the underside of your arm. The test is then read 48-72 hours later. A test is considered positive for TB infection if the bump is 5-15mm or larger, depending on your risk factors. If this happens, it means you have been exposed to TB, not that you have the active disease. After a positive TB skin test, a chest x-ray will be done to see if you have active TB disease. If the chest x-ray shows no sign of TB, then a decision will be made whether or not you should receive treatment based on your risk factors for TB disease.

What is the treatment for latent TB?

The treatment of latent TB is usually with a drug called Isoniazid or INH. The treatment is a daily dose of the medication over a period of 9-12 months. A twelve-month treatment reduces the risk for TB disease by more than 90%.

Who is at risk for TB infection?

• Anyone with HIV or AIDS.
• Persons who are IV drug users.
• Those with close contacts to a person known or suspected to have TB.
• Foreign-born persons from areas where TB is common (those from North America and Europe are not usually at any higher risk).
• Residents and employees of high-risk congregate settings.
• Health care workers who serve high-risk clients.

Anyone who fits into one of these groups should be tested for TB with the Tuberculin skin test annually.

Where do I go for TB testing?

Any student of UMKC can go to Student Health and Wellness for TB skin testing. Testing can also be done for students or any other persons at the local health department. Testing at UMKC Health and Wellness costs $8.00. If the skin test is positive a referral will be made to the Kansas City Health Department for further testing. The follow-up testing and treatment at the health department is free of charge.

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