You should always keep in mind that certain countries are considered higher risk for acquiring Tuberculosis.

Currently the five countries with the highest TB incidence worldwide are:
1.    India
2.    China
3.    South Africa
4.    Indonesia
5.    Pakistan

For a complete list of other high burden countries visit www.stoptb.org/countries/tbdata.asp

If you have travelled to any of these countries it does not mean that you automatically will need a TB skin test. Your risk of becoming infected with TB increases with length of stay. In general testing is not recommended for trips shorter than a month.   

The type of travel you are doing in the country can also make a difference. Providing direct patient care in a hospital or indoor setting, working in prisons, homeless shelters, refugee camps or inner city slums are all considered high risk and a TB skin test may be recommended.

For more information please call us at 519-355-1071 ext. 5902.

TB Education… It’s What We Do!