Latent TB infection. Could I still work in the hospital?

[MiaMiaPP]

I just got into Pharm school and had to take a series of TB tests. Turned out I had latent TB infection, so my blood test is positive but my chest x day is clear. I suspect I got this from my country (Vietnam) since they have a high rate of TB infection. I know I am not infectious but I don't want to take the med as I will come back to Vietnam often (most or my family is still there) and there is a good chance I would be infected again anyway.
My biggest fear is if I will be able to work as a hospital pharmacist in the future. Anyone in be same situation or know anything about this?
Thanks.

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[zelman]

I just got into Pharm school and had to take a series of TB tests. Turned out I had latent TB infection, so my blood test is positive but my chest x day is clear. I suspect I got this from my country (Vietnam) since they have a high rate of TB infection. I know I am not infectious but I don't want to take the med as I will come back to Vietnam often (most or my family is still there) and there is a good chance I would be infected again anyway.
My biggest fear is if I will be able to work as a hospital pharmacist in the future. Anyone in be same situation or know anything about this?
Thanks.

Blood test, or skin test?

 

[npage148]

Were you vaccinated and forgot?

 

[KidPharmD]

Regardless of the questions, the answer is yes. I tested positive at the beginning of this year and went through treatment. Never missed a day.

For most states, your school or place of employment cannot inquire about your decision to take or not take treatment for LTBI. They can only require proof that you had your consultation at the Health Department.

That being said, your risk of LTBI activation and infection due to exposure are both higher if you do get treated. Ask for the 4 months of RIF, it really isn't that bad.

 

[MiaMiaPP]

Blood test, or skin test?

Both blood and skin rest are positive. Negative chest x ray.

 

[KidPharmD]

Both blood and skin rest are positive. Negative chest x ray.

Which is the definition of LTBI.
Treated or not, you can work as long as you don't become active.

 

[god102908]

I have latent TB and is getting treated with INH for 9 months. I was planning to volunteer at a hospital but they told me I cannot volunteer unless I get treatment for latent TB.

So I went to an infectious disease specialist and asked for a letter that I am getting treated. She told me that I would not have a problem getting hired at a hospital as long as it is not active. Also, they won't ask you to get skin or quantiferon test anymore if you get treated. They may ask for chest x ray once a year to make sure it is not active. But once you get treated with latent TB, you will never have to get that treatment again (unless you get active TB) because there is no way of knowing that you got re-exposure. So I think it's just better to get treated now as a student to make sure it doesn't interfere with hiring process later on.