Screening and Chemoprophylaxis for Tuberculosis Infection in College Populations

Abstract

Active tuberculosis and the potential for widespread disease exist on college campuses. To maximize the benefit and minimize the potential harm of a screening program, health service clinicians should administer tuberculin skin tests to high-risk students only. Those found to be infected should be considered for prophylactic treatment. The criteria that identify students as being at high risk need to be clearly appreciated, especially the issue of birth outside the United States. Certain countries of origin pose a high risk; others do not. By understanding the fundamentals of the current pandemic and employing a consistent approach, college health professionals can make the correct screening decisions, thereby reducing the risk to their campus communities and assisting in the eradication of this preventable disease.

Key Words:

• college health
• prophylaxis
• screening
• tuberculosis

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marjeanne Collins

William C. Dixon is a college health physician at Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, California; Marjeanne Collins is director of the student health service and an associate professor of medicine and pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.