I've been diagnosed as having 'latent TB'. Can I still apply to work with elderly people if TB test required?

Question

I was between jobs and stayed at a shelter a few nights, and they required a TB test. Mine came up positive, but it was latent, which as I understand it means I don't have active TB. Per wikipedia, it says people with latent TB are not contagious.

I'm at job center, and there's a job available working with elderly, that requires a TB test. If I have latent, rather than contagious TB, can I still apply for the job, and just watch to make sure I don't get any symptoms?

Answer 1

Go ahead and apply.  A possitive TB skin test only means that you have been exposed to the bacteria and that your body has started to make antibodies to it.  Whether you have latent TB or not is dependant on how your chest x-ray looks and if you had a prolonged exposure.  Most people are treated with medication when they convert as a profolactic measure to make sure they don't develop active TB.  If you can show proof of treatment you will have no problem getting a job working in healthcare.  I also agree with the other poster in that you will not have to have any more skin tests as they become increasingly more 'positive' once you convert.  Annual chest x-ray's will be what you should be looking forward to in order to be complete sure that your lungs are healthy.  Good luck.

Answer 2

i have the same thing. you can still apply for jobs and when required to test you have to take a chest xray, NO more shots. EVER. the side effects will become even worse.