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TB Testing Information

We recently reached out on behalf of Brockton High School, to notify a group of current and former students that they have been identified as having had close contact with an individual with active tuberculosis (TB). This information is intended only for those who have been contacted directly by BPS about TB.

 

Free TB testing will be available for these individuals on Monday, November 17, at Brockton High School. Testing for current students will take place during the school day. Testing for former students will be offered from 2:15-3 p.m. on November 17. 

 

 

Tuberculosis is a contagious disease that spreads through the air and testing people exposed to TB is critically important. Please complete this form to indicate permission and preferences for testing.

 

The free TB testing at Brockton High School will be conducted using a TB blood test, or IGRA.

 

Please keep in mind:

  • It is important to know that a person who is exposed to the TB bacteria, but who is not sick with TB disease, is not able to spread the bacteria to other people. Only persons with active TB disease can spread TB bacteria to others.
  • A person with TB may have no symptoms. Even if you feel well, it is important to get tested to determine whether you breathed in the bacteria that causes TB.
  • If the test is positive, you will need further evaluation and to be seen by a healthcare provider.
  • TB is preventable and curable­­­­­­.
    • For individuals who have breathed in the bacteria that causes TB, there is preventive treatment that can greatly reduce the chance they might become sick with TB disease.
    • For individuals with active TB, there are effective treatments that can cure TB disease.
  • If the test is negative, that means the test did not detect any evidence of TB infection and you will not need any further TB testing.

You should seek immediate medical evaluation and notify Brockton High School if your child is currently experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Cough lasting longer than 3 weeks
  • Chest pain
  • Cough with bloody phlegm
  • Unusual fatigue
  • Night sweats
  • Fever or chills
  • Unexplained weight loss

If you have questions, please call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at (617) 983-6970 or email [email protected].

 

Thank you for your cooperation in getting tested. Please let us know if you have any questions