Curtin University of Technology
Last modified 5/16/08 12:20 PM
Curtin University of Technology CRICOS Provider Code 00301J
The Sydney Campus of Curtin University of Technology CRICOS Provider Code 02637B
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also known as 'the tubercle bacillus'. TB commonly affects the lungs, but can reach any part of the body. It is usually spread by the coughs or sneezes of an infected person, but is not highly contagious. Prolonged close contact with a person with TB - for example, living in the same household - is usually necessary for infection to be passed on. It may take many years before someone infected with TB develops the full disease. TB worldwide is a massive and growing problem, although Australia has managed to maintain a low, relatively constant incidence. TB is curable with a course of special antibiotics taken for at least six months. The most important part of controlling TB is identifying and treating those who already have the disease, to shorten their infection and to stop it being passed on to others.
The Mantoux test is a measure of hypersensitivity to Mycobacteria and can be used to detect previous exposure to the disease. People, such as health workers, who may be exposed to the disease risk are routinely tested before entering practice. A repeat Mantoux text will be required if you have been exposed to at-risk populations, check with your doctor.
The PERTH CHEST CLINIC is located at 17 Murray Street in Perth. Ph: 9325 3922.
Tuberculin testing is available on MONDAY AFTERNOONS ONLY (or the Tuesday following a Monday Public Holidays) between 1.30 a.m. - 3.30 p.m.
Reading of results is on the FOLLOWING THURSDAY MORNING (Friday in weeks with a Monday public holiday) between 8.15 - 12.00 a.m.
Complete the following form as a record of your test status and send to your school office. This form is in Adobe PDF format.
