In recent years, the number of cases of tuberculosis (TB) has been on the rise in the United States.  There are many factors that contribute to this rise, including an increase in the homeless population, crowded living situations, and a rise in the number of people from countries where TB is endemic.  The trend has also affected Sacramento County, where the number of TB cases is increasing.

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs, but can attack other parts of the body, as well.  TB bacteria can be transmitted from one person to another through the air.  Those most at risk for contracting the disease are people who share confined air space with an infected person. 

Here is Sacramento County, the staff at the Primary Health Services Chest Clinic is front and center in the battle against tuberculosis.  The Clinic’s mission is to provide TB surveillance for Sacramento County.  Fulfilling that mission is priority one for more than 35 staff members working at the Clinic.  To do that, the staff:

• Provides TB testing and chest x-rays;
• Tracks individuals with either active or suspected TB to be sure they are receiving appropriate treatment; 
• Investigates cases of TB exposure, and ensures that those who are exposed follow-up for treatment;
• Reports TB data to the state.

By law, medical providers in Sacramento County must report suspected cases of TB to Sacramento County’s TB Control within one working day.  The staff at the Clinic then investigates each case to determine if other people have been exposed, and to ensure that anyone who is exposed follows up for treatment.  Staff members visit each person with active or suspected TB five days a week to ensure that they are taking their medications and following through with medical care. 

In addition, the Clinic has an active screening program for those people in Sacramento County who access homeless services.  Individuals who seek homeless services receive an initial chest x-ray, and then skin testing at six-month intervals to ensure they are free from the disease.  The staff members at the Clinic work with those who do test positive for TB to help monitor their treatment.

In the fall of 2003, the Chest Clinic moved from its former location into the Paul F. Hom Primary Care Center at Stockton and Broadway.  That moved tripled the amount of space at the Clinic.  With TB on the rise, the increased space makes it easier for the staff members to assist the growing number of people seen each day.  In addition, a customized ventilation system prevents the air in the facility from being recirculated.  This decreases the risk of exposure to the bacteria, and provides a safer environment for both patients and staff members. 

Susan Harris, Chest Clinic Manager, encourages everyone to learn more about TB, and to be aware of the warning signs, which include:

• A cough lasting more than two weeks
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Fever