Tell me about TB testing...

[crunchyconmomma]

I've been working on getting the exemption forms for my kids to start daycare. I had been a SAHM (DP worked and I did not) and am now a single mom returning to school so the kids will have to be cared for in a daycare B/C I am going back to school.
Anyway, while I was searching I came across some stuff for waivers of TB tests, which my school of course is requesting I have before I start in the fall. I was going to just go get it but now I am wanting to know what this buzz is before I decide yay or nay on compliance...
What can you tell me?

[LongIsland]

As far as I can tell, TB testing is not a requirement for schools and post-secondary institutions in PA.

[crunchyconmomma]

well, when you say "not a requirement" don't you mean in the same way that vax's are not required? the university tells me i need one, (so they "require" it but i think i can file an exemption on the basis of some of the info i have come across about them.
i haven't had any vax's or TB tests since before we ever had kids and i started to become aware of this, so i don't remember anything about the test. some of the stuff i came across makes is stuff that i do object to (the practice). do you know any links that explain (as objectively as possible) about what the different types of tests are and how they are performed?

[LongIsland]

Originally Posted by crunchyconmomma

well, when you say "not a requirement" don't you mean in the same way that vax's are not required? the university tells me i need one, (so they "require" it but i think i can file an exemption on the basis of some of the info i have come across about them.

Not all states require proof of immunization for entry to post secondary institutions. Some that do also strongly recommend vaxes like meningitis (some require it as well), but if you don't want it, you would need to sign a waiver stating the school told you about the risks, etc.

Are you enrolling in a nursing/medical program b/c this is the only time I've ever come across a TB requirement for a post secondary institution? University medical programs are able to implement their own policies when it comes to testing and vaccines, but would still have to honor requests for exemption.

Does the paperwork state that a TB test is required for entry or strongly recommended?

[LongIsland]

Here's the package insert for Tubersol (skin test): http://www.vaccineshoppe.com/US_PDF/752-21_4611.pdf

[LongIsland]

Does the facility have a website? I went to the University of PA's website to see their requirements and found this:

Tuberculosis
In accordance with the recommendations from both the American College Health Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the University performs targeted tuberculosis (TB) testing. Under these guidelines, TB testing is required of students who are more likely to be exposed to TB, or who are more likely to develop active infection if they are exposed. The Student Health Service does NOT accept outside PPD test results. Students should complete the Medical History Questionnaire. Students who require additional evaluation will be contacted by SHS to arrange follow-up at Student Health for a PPD skin test. However, this requirement can be satisfied by a completed INH series or a negative chest X-ray given within 12 months of matriculation.

Exemptions from requirements
Students are exempt from the immunization requirements if there is a medical contraindication or if religious or philosophical belief prohibits immunizations. A signed statement indicating specific medical contraindication from a Medical Doctor, Osteopath, Nurse Practitioner or a Physician’s Assistant is required for medical exemption. A signed declaration of religious or philosophical befief must be submitted to SHS. If the exemption includes meningococcal vaccine, the Meningococcal Waiver must also be submitted. The Student History and Consent Form still must be submitted.

http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/shs/imreq05c.html

[LongIsland]

Same requirements for Penn State: http://www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/internatio...unizations.cfm

[crunchyconmomma]

i think you have too much time on your hands, but boy am i glad you do!!!
did you find that stuff right on the school's website? i will go to millersville's and see if they post any of this.

[LongIsland]

Originally Posted by crunchyconmomma

i think you have too much time on your hands, but boy am i glad you do!!!

did you find that stuff right on the school's website?

Yes, it was very easy to locate and I'm sure your school has similar, if not identical, guidelines.

Please let us know how it goes if you decide to exempt yourself.