What precautions should one take when coming into contact with someone who has tuberculosis (TB)?

Answer 1

Active tuberculosis is extremely contagious. It is spread by droplet transmission, meaning that someone in the same room could get it, but probably not in another room.

You CANNOT use normal dust or particulate masks to filter out the infectious droplets! Even the HEPA dust masks have not been specifically studied to block the spread of TB, since they are designed to filter out dry particles, not water droplets. The only masks that are known to prevent its spread are called N95 masks, and are available in many medical supply stores.

You cannot get TB through physical contact, so shaking hands, touching household items, and anything that normal household assistance entails should not be a worry. The bacteria cannot survive more than a few hours outside the body, so clothes and such can be washed without worry.

for more info, check out http://www.cdc.gov/tb/faqs/qa_TBDisease.htm#Active6

Answer 2

You have already received some excellent advice regarding preventing TB exposure. If you came in contact with someone with TB and did not know it until after the contact occurred, there are some steps you can take.

First, you would want to have a TB Skin Test to see if you show a positive or negative reaction. Secondly, see your primary care physician or the local health department. They will evaluate your situation and prescribe some medications you can take - most of the time for about 6 months.

Answer 3

If the patients TB is active just starting treatment the patient should be on respitory precautions. Just staying in their room. All people coming into the room should wear a mask that has a special resevoir. Not the surgical masks. If the patient has only been exposed with a abnormal PPD test no precautions are required but the patient must start taking a special antibiotic.

Answer 4

TB is an airborne pathogen. You will need to wear a face mask. There are two types of acceptable masks: HEPA and N95. Anything else may not provide sufficient protection. Remember that face masks are one-time use only -- never re-use a mask. If possible, try to be in a well-ventilated area. Stagnant air will have higher concentrations of TB.

Answer 5

If they have active TB you would have to have a airtight mask if you were going to be very close to them. I am an xray tech and we have to get fitted for the masks so they don't let any air in around your nose or mouth. But I think people can still have (or maybe "carry") TB and not be contagious.

Answer 6

The most important thing is - don't get coughed on. This illness is spread by droplet and airborne. You need an OSHA approved fit tested mask or a duck bill mask when in contact- I would also wear a gown and gloves.

Answer 7

You can use disposable breathing masks to reduce your risk of contagion.

Answer 8

nothing