Topic Overview

All cases of tuberculosis (TB) are reported to the public health authority, because the disease can spread to others and cause outbreaks. Major health authorities keep track of TB outbreaks and encourage early testing for people who are at risk for the disease.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends testing for people who have high risk for TB. These may include people who:^{footnote 1}

• Live or spend time with someone who has TB.
• Were born in parts of the world where TB is common.
• Live or have lived in crowded conditions where TB can easily spread, such as nursing homes, homeless shelters,or correctional facilities.
• Work in a hospital or nursing home.

You may also be tested for TB if you have HIV, other medical problems, or misuse drugs or alcohol.

People who have a high risk for developing TB may have a skin test (tuberculin test) on a regular basis. Health professionals may be given a tuberculin skin test when they begin work in a hospital or nursing home, with retesting every 6 to 12 months.

For more information, see the topic Tuberculosis.