Overview of Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by bacteria that usually affects the lungs and spreads through the air when someone with active TB coughs or sneezes. Most people who carry the bacteria don’t feel sick, but a small number develop active TB disease, which can cause symptoms and be contagious.
The good news is that TB can be prevented, tested for, and treated effectively with help from public health.
- What is TB?
- What is a TB Skin test?
TB screening
Tuberculosis (TB) screening is available through Interior Health public health services to help identify TB infection or disease and reduce the spread of TB in the community.
Screening is offered to individuals who may be at increased risk of TB due to medical, occupational, or other factors. TB screening services are provided in coordination with Interior Health Communicable Disease and BCCDC. Public health professionals can provide guidance on testing, follow-up, and next steps based on individual circumstances.
Publicly funded TB screening is available through Interior Health - Public Health for eligible individuals, including those referred for medical reasons, people living with HIV, and individuals under immigration medical surveillance. Screening may include assessment and testing as recommended by public health professionals.
Fee-for-service TB screening is available for purposes such as work, school, volunteering, or travel. Non-publicly funded TB screening may be offered at travel clinics, vaccination centres, and in some IH public health units.
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental bacteria found in soil and water that can sometimes cause lung or skin infections, especially in people with underlying health conditions.
Unlike tuberculosis, NTM infections aren’t spread person‑to‑person — they’re picked up from the environment. Most people exposed to NTM never get sick, but those who do may need specialized care to diagnose and treat the infection.
