PLEASE NOTE:

Starting JULY 1ST, 2007: The Health Unit will not be providing TB Skin Testing for school or employment purposes. We will continue to provide TB Skin Testing for contacts of positive TB cases (free of charge). Please visit a physician for TB skin tests for school or employment.

What is a skin test for tuberculosis?

This simple test is done to see if you are sensitive to the tuberculosis bacteria.

Who should be tested?

You should be tested if you:

• have been in contact with a person who has tuberculosis
• are going to live in a Long Term Care Facility
• are starting to work in a Health Care Facility
• are required by your employer, to have pre-employment or annual testing
• have travelled or will be travelling to certain countries

Why must I have the test twice?

You may be asked to have the skin test done again, one to four weeks after the first time. This is called the "two step" test. It makes the result more accurate. You cannot get tuberculosis from having the skin test done.

How is the skin test done?

A small amount of the test liquid is placed by needle just under the skin of the forearm. This makes a little bump that goes away soon. Two to three days later, the same doctor or nurse who gave you the test should look at your arm. If there is nothing there, the test is negative. If there is some swelling, the doctor or nurse will measure it and decide if the test is positive.

What does a positive skin test mean?

A positive test means that you should see your doctor for further tests. It does not mean that you have tuberculosis.

What are the possible side effects?

If you have a very strong positive reaction, your arm where the skin test was done may be itchy and sore for awhile. In rare cases, the skin may break down where the test was done or leave a scar.

Where can I have a TB Skin Test (TBST)?

TBSTs are only available through your family physician. However, the Health Unit will provide TB Skin tests to those who have been identified as potential contacts of someone with tuberculosis. If you have been notified that you were a potential TB contact and are requested to get a TB Skin Test, the Health Unit will provide the test free of charge.