Detroit Offering TB Tests After Exposure Scare
DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit health officials are working to reassure residents in the wake of a tuberculosis scare last week.
You may recall, last week, state health officials announced an investigation into the potential TB exposure of dental care patients and staffers at four Detroit health care facilities.
Apparently, a healthcare worker rotating among the four facilities between August and December last year unknowingly had tuberculosis.
According to officials at the Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion, everyone at risk of exposure has already been contacted —but residents who are still concerned can still get tested.
"Anyone who was not directly contacted about possible exposure to TB, has very little to be concerned about in terms of being at risk," said Vernice Anthony, Director of the DHWP. "However, we want to make sure our residents are informed so they can know their options."
Anthony said any resident that has questions or would like to be tested can contact the Institute for Population Health (IPH) at 313-309-6720. Experts are available to answer questions, and to schedule a TB test if requested.
There is a fee of $10 for the test, and walk-ins can be accommodated. TB tests can be given every day except Thursdays at IPH Northend, 8904 Woodward Avenue, Detroit MI 48202. Hours of service are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.