Tuberculosis Control Program

What is TB?

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attacks the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body, such as the kidney, spine, lymph nodes, and brain. If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal. TB can be manifest in two ways: active disease or latent infection.

TB Disease (Active)

Latent TB Infection

The Davis County Health Department offers the following support services related to TB:

TB Screening
Case and contact disease investigations
Counseling and education
Extensive case management
Medication therapy

Call 801-525-5200 to learn more.

Schedule an Appointment

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FAQs About TB

What is a TB Skin Test?

A TB skin test will tell you if you have ever had TB germs in your body. A harmless fluid is placed under your skin on the inside of your arm. A very small needle is used, so you will only feel a light pinch. After the test is done, you will need to return to the clinic or doctor’s office in 2 to 3 days so your healthcare provider can look at the test spot on your arm. The provider will look at the test spot and measure any bump that appears there. Your healthcare provider will let you know if your test is negative or positive.

Positive skin test: This means the person’s body was infected with TB bacteria. Additional tests are needed to determine if the person has latent TB infection or TB disease.

Negative skin test: This means the person’s body did not react to the test, and that latent TB infection or TB disease is not likely.

There is no problem in repeating a TB skin test. If repeated, the additional test should be placed in a different location on the body (e.g., other arm).

Who should get tested for TB?

Certain people should be tested for TB infection because they are at higher risk for being infected with TB bacteria, including:

People who have spent time with someone who has TB disease
People from a country where TB disease is common (most countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Russia)
People who live or work in high-risk settings (for example: correctional facilities, long-term care facilities or nursing homes, and homeless shelters)
Health-care workers who care for patients at increased risk for TB disease
Infants, children, and adolescents exposed to adults who are at increased risk for latent tuberculosis infection or TB disease

Many people who have latent TB infection never develop TB disease. But some people who have latent TB infection are more likely to develop TB disease than others. Those at high risk for developing TB disease include:

People with HIV infection
People who became infected with TB bacteria in the last 2 years
Babies and young children
People who inject illegal drugs
People who are sick with other diseases that weaken the immune system
Elderly people
People who were not treated correctly for latent TB infection in the past

TB tests are generally not needed for people with a low risk of infection with TB bacteria.

How can I schedule a TB skin test?

The Davis County Health Department offers TB skin test. Call 801-525-5020 to schedule an appointment. You can also schedule a test with your current healthcare provider.

How much does it cost to get a TB skin test?

The cost of a TB skin test at the Davis County Health Department is $20, but may be covered by some insurance plans. Payment is due at the time of the appointment. Call 801-525-5020 for more information.

What are the symptoms of TB Disease (Active)?

The symptoms of TB include: