Donna,

We stopped all routine testing in WI because our rates of TB are so low. The major risk is from new refugee/immigrant populations, and from older foreign-born folks, and we approach those with targeted testing.

In Alaska, however, I understand that there are still very high rates of TB in some areas, so I think that in those areas, routine testing AND PREVENTIVE TREATMENT should still exist. Testing without subsequent treatment is pretty useless, in my opinion. Other than it tells you when they break down with disease that there were previous opportunities to prevent disease.

All this is my opinion only. Glad to hear from others.

Lorna Will RN, MA

On Wed, Jan 30, 2019 at 11:38 Fearey, Donna A (HSS) <donna.fearey@alaska.gov> wrote:

Hello from Alaska,

I would appreciate hearing about any routine school TB testing or TB risk assessments requirements in your state. My understanding is that most states do not have require school based TB testing or TB risk assessments.

In Alaska

· Annual TB testing (TST or IGRA) is required in our school districts categorized as “high risk”.

· A one-time TB risk assessment is required for new students in our school districts categorized as “low risk”. TB testing is only done if a TB risk is identified.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,

Donna

Donna Fearey, ANP, MSN

Nurse Epidemiologist
State of Alaska
3601 C Street, Suite 540
Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: 907-269-8093
Fax: 907-563-7868
Cell: 907-903-9819

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