Screening Tests for Adults
Tuberculosis
While not recommended as a general screen, screening for tuberculosis is recommended based on known risk factors.
In the UK, too, the number of TB cases is rising. Alcoholics, HIV-positive individuals, some recent immigrants and healthcare workers are at increased risk. The disease is most commonly found in places such as hostels for the homeless, prisons, and centres for immigrants arriving from areas with high rates of HIV infection or inadequate health provision.
A tuberculin (Mantoux) skin test may be recommended if you are at risk of infection. Typically, you do not feel ill or have symptoms. The test is recommended for anyone who has come in contact with a person infected with tuberculosis, in HIV-positive individuals, some individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapy.
For more information see the Health Protection Agency Website.
In the UK, too, the number of TB cases is rising. Alcoholics, HIV-positive individuals, some recent immigrants and healthcare workers are at increased risk. The disease is most commonly found in places such as hostels for the homeless, prisons, and centres for immigrants arriving from areas with high rates of HIV infection or inadequate health provision.
A tuberculin (Mantoux) skin test may be recommended if you are at risk of infection. Typically, you do not feel ill or have symptoms. The test is recommended for anyone who has come in contact with a person infected with tuberculosis, in HIV-positive individuals, some individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapy.
For more information see the Health Protection Agency Website.
In the Republic of Ireland, the number of TB cases is rising. There are approximately 10.6 cases /100,000 of population. The vaccination against TB (BCG) is given to adults who are considered to be at risk of developing TB where potential contact with the disease could occur or has occurred BCG vaccine is very effective, particularly in preventing childhood TB and the more severe forms of TB.
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