Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis entering the patient’s lungs. TB is very contagious and can be spread when someone who has TB coughs or sneezes. 

It is important to be tested for TB as it is very contagious and if left untreated can cause other parts of the body such as the spine, liver, heart and joints. Symptoms of TB include but are not limited to: A persistent cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks, chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, unexpected weight loss, fatigue, fever and coughing up blood.

ACWC will perform a Tuberculin skin test by injecting a protein solution under the skin and monitoring the injection site over the next 48-72 hours. If a skin reaction is visible at the injection site, the patient may need to see a doctor for further testing. If there is no reaction at the injection site, the patient is negative. ACWC will prescribe the patient with treatment should the results be positive.