They should have the skin test once a year. Those who work with high-risk groups should be tested every six months. The test involves a small injection into the skin, which is then checked in a couple of days for swelling. If a person is found to have tuberculosis infection, treatment is begun immediately. Other persons who have been in close contact with the infected person are also tested to make certain they have not contracted the disease.
Preventive treatment is provided to people who are at risk of developing the disease.
Last year, Wake County had 36 cases of tuberculosis. Officials do not expect the number of cases for 2000 to be higher than in 1999.