Resources
- Houston Health Department
- Tuberculosis Control
- 8000 North Stadium Drive, Houston, Texas 77054
- 832-393-5169
- 832-393-5247
Page last reviewed: September 24, 2022
TB Frequently Asked Questions
General Introduction
TB Disease
- How is TB disease treated?
- What are the side effects of TB disease medicines?
- Why do I need to take TB medicines regularly?
- What is directly observed therapy (DOT)?
- How can I remember to take my TB medicines if I am not on DOT?
- How can I keep from spreading TB?
- What is the multidrug-resistant TB and extensively drug-resistant TB?
Latent TB Infection
- Should I get tested for TB?
- What are the tests for TB infection?
- What if I have a positive test for TB infection?
- What if I have been vaccinated with BCG?
- If I have latent TB infection, how can I keep from developing TB disease?
- What if I have HIV infection?
- If I was exposed to someone with TB disease, can I give TB to others?
TB Facts in Everyday Life
- Someone in the world is newly infected with TB every second.
- We have found TB in ancient Egyptian mummies.
- Scientists around the world are working to develop a new TB vaccine.
- Many famous fictional characters passed away from consumption — even Nicole Kidman’s character Satine from Moulin Rouge!
- Although TB in the USA has gradually decreased over time, TB continues to be a major issues throughout the world.
TB Testing at the City of Houston Health Department
My job requires me to get a TB test. Does the Houston Health Department provide administrative TB testing?
Please be advised that TB testing is not provided to those in need of a test as a job requirement. The Houston Health Department recommends you seek the assistance of a private physician or community clinic for a TB test.
I need TB testing as a requirement for my immigration status adjustment. Can I be tested by the Houston Health Department?
Please be advised that TB testing is not provided to those who are adjusting their immigration status. The Houston Health Department recommends you seek the assistance of a private physician or community clinic for a TB test.
Is there any cost to me if I the Houston Health Department says I need a TB test?
If you are identified as contact to an active and contagious pulmonary case of TB, the TB test (either a skin test or a blood test) will be provided at no cost. If you are not a contact to an active and contagious pulmonary case of TB, the Houston Health Department recommends you seek the counsel/assistance of a private doctor regarding TB testing first.
Additional questions? Visit the Texas Department of State Health Services TB FAQ page.