(Resources for free testing at the bottom):

Background:

TB is a commonly mentioned bacterial infection due to the significant concerns it poses to global health. The labeled silent killer can lie dormant in a person’s body for years, with people who carry it potentially having no idea until it randomly activates. However, it is particularly prevalent in certain regions such as the Middle East, East Asia, and China. For individuals moving from these areas to places like LA, understanding the risks and getting tested for TB are significant milestones that communities strive to achieve.

With environmental factors like limited access to healthcare, overcrowded living conditions, and ongoing conflicts, especially currently, that all contribute to the spread of this disease, TB is usually undiagnosed. Additionally, Tuberculosis is one of few bacterial conditions that can be latent, remaining in a person’s body for decades, with a person being oblivious until it strikes. TB is cited as one of the top 10 causes of death globally, indicating the sheer danger level. However, if TB is detected while latent, a healthcare provider can easily prescribe antibiotics that make the condition treatable. Organizations like the CDC suggest getting tested for TB so that any necessary treatment can be given.

TB In Los Angeles:

Here in LA, there’s a large, diverse immigrant population that includes individuals from regions where TB is more common, which makes public health safety organizations like the LA County Department of Public Health claim that TB is a significant public health concern in the area. Yet the good part is that it’s simple to get tested, especially in Los Angeles. For people wondering how to attain TB screening, LA has comprehensive TB control programs, including regular screenings for individuals from high-risk regions, such as at pharmacies across LA and hospitals. Additionally, if anyone is worried about the cost of testing, LA is home to various free clinics that offer the screening completely free!

The test itself:

The TB test itself is simple, quick, and easy: a nurse injects a small amount of fluid, then reads 48-72 hours later. The process takes only about five minutes to complete, and if the test suggests TB, a healthcare provider may recommend a chest x-ray to confirm that TB is not active.

Getting tested for TB seems like a small step, but it can make a huge difference. If detected early, it’s easily treatable with a straightforward course of antibiotics that keeps you and the people around you safe from the disease. Thus, getting tested as soon as possible if you suspect TB or moved from a high-risk area is essential and is incredibly impactful for the entire community.

Sites for clinics offering free testing:

Antelope Valley: https://www.antelopevalley.com/antelope-valley-community-clinic.html

Hollywood: https://www.hsfreeclinic.org/ 

Others: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/chs/Docs/DPH-Clinics.pdf

Works Cited:

August 1, 2024    |    Family Medicine. “TB Testing: What If I Test Positive?” Scripps Health, 13 Aug. 2024, www.scripps.org/news_items/6486-do-i-need-a-tb-test-what-happens-if-i-test-positive-for-tb. 

“Epidemiological Situation.” World Health Organization, World Health Organization, www.emro.who.int/tuberculosis/epidemiological-situation/index.html. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024. 

“Tuberculosis (TB).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/tb/index.html. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024. 

“Tuberculosis (TB).” World Health Organization, World Health Organization, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tuberculosis. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024. 

PPD. 2024. CDC

https://www.cdc.gov/tb/hcp/testing-diagnosis/tuberculin-skin-test.html