Call 423-209-8030 for additional information

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that is spread from person to person through the air. TB usually affects the lungs.  The germs are put into the air when a person with TB of the lung coughs, sneezes, laughs, or sings.  TB can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, or the spine.  There are an estimated 10 to 15 million Americans infected with the TB bacteria, who have the potential to develop active disease in the future.  

STATISTICS

TB Cases in Hamilton County

2005 - 14
2004 - 15
2003 - 13
2002 - 17
2001 - 23
2000 – 24
1999 – 20
1998 – 27
1997 – 23
1996 – 38

The TB Control section of the Communicable Disease Clinic is responsible for the identification, treatment and management of all TB cases in Hamilton County.  Identification and follow up of contacts to cases is also the responsibility of TB Control. 

PROGRAM SERVICES include: 

• Preventive therapy for persons infected with the TB germ
• Monthly monitoring of these individuals
• Anti-tuberculosis medication and appropriate laboratory services including x-rays for active cases of TB case management for the patient with TB, including Directly Observed Therapy
• Medical supervision and visits with a TB physician
• TB skin testing and examination of contacts
• Education to patients, families and the public
• Consultation to other healthcare providers
• Statistical data to area healthcare facilities
• In-services and educational materials upon request
• Translators provided for non English speaking patients
• Educational materials available in other languages
• Enforcement of tuberculosis laws and regulations to protect the health of the public