We are attaching a recent health alert sent out to local public health agencies
from the Department. There is a nationwide shortage of the Tuberculin(TB) Skin
Test Antigen "Tubersol". There are also regional shortages of the TB Skin Test
Antigen "Aplisol".
Some providers have identified the issue and have
requested clarification in regard to new employee testing. The Centers for
Disease Control (CDC) is recommending the following:
1. Substitute the TB
skin test with a blood test called "IGRA". This would require a blood draw and
the test sent to a laboratory for analysis. The cost is greater than a TB skin
test.
2. Substitute Aplisol for Tubersol where available to conduct TB
skin testing.
3. Prioritization of need. The deferment of routine skin
testing (new employee) should be considered in consultation with local public
health authorities.
In light of the recommendations of the CDC, the
Department recommends you seek guidance from your local public health
authorities to see if you are in a higher risk area for exposure to TB and apply
any recommendations given.
If the decision is made to defer testing,
make sure you have updated your policy and continue to monitor for symptoms of
TB as per CDC guidelines. Document in your personnel records the actions taken
to monitor employees and complete the testing when the TB skin antigens become
available.
Contact Judy.Hughes@state.co.us for more information.
HAN Update - Nationwide
Shortage of Tuberculin Skin Antigen Test
This blog publishes information typically sent to users of the Colorado Health Facilities Interactive (COHFI) system for health care entities regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Please note that COHFI is the official medium for business communication between the Department and licensed and/or Medicare/Medicaid certified health care entities. Health care entities should continue to monitor their email accounts routinely.
