nhcgov.com | New Hanover County's official website

Tuberculosis Control Program

(910)798-6533
for information
and appointment

(910)798-6500

Goal: To eliminate tuberculosis disease in our community

Strategies:

  • Early identification of TB disease

  • Appropriate disease treatment

  • Minimize number of new infections

  • Provide preventive treatment to infected individuals

Services:

  • Tuberculosis (TB) skin testing using PPD to identify infection caused by exposure to TB germ which is spread through the air

  • Chest X-ray referrals to rule out active TB

  • Screening for TB for employment

  • Clinical evaluation and TB medications

  • Contact investigations, case follow-up, and home visits to assure adequate treatment to prevent community outbreaks

A Quick Guide to TB
TB Infection Verses TB Disease (in the lungs)

TB Infection

TB Disease

Tubercle bacilli in the body

Tubercle bacilli in the body

Tuberculin skin test reaction usually positive

Tuberculin skin test reaction usually positive

Chest x-ray usually normal

Chest x-ray usually abnormal

Sputum smears and cultures negative

Sputum smears and cultures positive

No symptoms

Symptoms such as cough, fever, weight loss

Not infectious

Often infectious before treatment

Not a case of TB

A case of TB

Preventive treatment optional/may be recommended

Treatment mandated by law

Additional Resources

National Center for TB Prevention
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

CDC National Prevention Information Network

North Carolina TB Control Program