TB Testing Near Me in Hattiesburg, MS
Our Labs Are Minutes Away From Your Home or Office
T-Spot I TB PPD Skin Test
QuantiFERON-TB Gold
TB Testing Locations in All Cities & States
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Made Simple and Reliable
Lab Testing USA provides comprehensive options for TB testing throughout Hattiesburg, MS and across the United States, including all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Our team of certified professionals is ready to facilitate TB tests for work, education, or personal health needs. Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that primarily targets the lungs but can affect other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Identifying the disease early is crucial to maintaining good health and preventing its spread. At Lab Testing USA, we offer a swift, convenient, and precise TB testing process with our network of locations nationwide, same-day appointment availability, and certified labs that you can rely on. Whether a skin test (PPD) or a blood test like QuantiFERON-TB Gold or T-Spot is needed for jobs, schooling, immigration, or personal reasons, our expertise delivers trustworthy results with ease. For more information or to locate a nearby testing center in Hattiesburg, MS, call our toll-free number at (800)441-2728.
TB Testing Methods Available
TB PPD Skin Test
T-SPOT®TB Test
QuantiFERON Gold -TB Test
12 Alcohol-Test Centers in Hattiesburg
What is a TB PPD Skin Test
The TB skin test is a traditional and widely used screening method. A small amount of purified protein derivative (tuberculin) is injected under the skin on the forearm
How it Works in Hattiesburg, MS
- Donor receives donor pass and proceeds for initial tuberculin injection
- This test requires the donor to follow-up visit within 48–72 hours to have the results read
- A trained healthcare professional examines the site for a reaction, which indicates potential TB infection
What is a TB Skin Test Used For?
- Routine screenings for schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings in Hattiesburg, MS
- Those, in Hattiesburg, MS, requiring a low-cost, reliable initial screening method
What is a QuantiFERON Gold TB Test
The QuantiFERON Gold TB blood test s a modern blood test offering fast, accurate results without the need for multiple appointments. The QuantiFERON Tb Test is (often abbreviated as QFT or QFT-Plus in its latest version)
Key Advantages in Hattiesburg, MS:
- Performed in one visit- no return appointment required
- Not affected by prior BCG vaccination, which can cause false positives in skin tests.
- No risk of subjective reading differences or human error
What is a QuantiFERON TB Test Used For?
- Screening for TB infection in Hattiesburg, MS workplaces (e.g., healthcare, schools, government).
- Pre-employment testing in Hattiesburg, MS
- Hattiesburg, MS Immigration, travel, or school requirements.
- When accuracy is especially important (e.g., individuals vaccinated with BCG).
What is an T-SPOT®.TB Test
The T-SPOT®.TB test is an advanced, laboratory-based blood test that detects the presence of T cells responding to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens. This method captures interferon gamma (IFN-γ) released by immune cells when exposed to TB proteins, providing a highly sensitive and specific result. FDA-approved and widely used for detecting latent TB infection and supporting active TB evaluation.
Key Benefits in Hattiesburg, MS
-
Aids in the diagnosis of latent and active TB infection
-
Useful when skin test results are unclear or affected by prior BCG vaccination
-
Performed in a single visit with results reviewed by certified labs
What is a T SPOT TB Test Used For?
- Hattiesburg, MS Employment & Occupational Screening: Healthcare workers, teachers, government employees, and others in safety-sensitive positions often need TB clearance.
- Hattiesburg, MS Immigration / Visa Requirements: Many countries accept the T-SPOT.TB as proof of TB screening.
- Hattiesburg, MS School & University Enrollment: Students (especially in medical or childcare fields) may be required to take it.
- Hattiesburg, MS Medical Evaluation: Doctors may order it for patients with risk factors, immune system concerns, or a history of TB exposure.
- When BCG Vaccine Has Been Given: Unlike the TB skin test, the T-SPOT.TB is not affected by prior BCG vaccination, which helps avoid false positives.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that spread through the air from person to person. While TB most commonly affects the lungs, it can also impact other areas of the body, including the brain, kidneys, and spine. Without proper treatment, TB can become life-threatening.
There are two main states: latent TB infection (you have TB bacteria in your body but no symptoms, non-infectious) and active TB disease (you have symptoms, can spread it)
Testing helps identify who has been exposed or infected, even if they are not yet sick, so they can get treatment if needed and prevent spread.
What happens if the test is positive or negative?
- Positive results for a skin or blood test means you have likely been infected with the TB bacteria. This does not tell you if it is an active infection. To check for active TB, doctors will often order a TB chest x-ray and sputum test
- Negative results means that no evidence (by that test result) of infection. Sometimes this isn't perfect, for example, a very recent infection might not yet be detected, or immune suppression might reduce response.
What are the side effects of risks of TB tests?
- Very minimal
- Skin test-mild pain, redness, swelling at the injection site
- Blood test- pain or bruising at needle site. Rare allergic reaction possible
How often should I be tested for TB?
This will depend on a person's risk factor. People who work in healthcare, live in high TB burden settings or have certain medical conditions might need regular testing. For most people, they only need to be tested when there is an immediate risk or exposure.
TB Testing Near Me in Hattiesburg, MS
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Made Simple and Reliable
Searching for a "TB test near me"? At Lab Testing USA, we make tuberculosis testing simple, fast, and affordable. Whether you need a TB skin test (PPD/Mantoux) or a TB blood test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold or T-Spot), we have nationwide locations with same-day appointments available.
Lab Testing USA Offers
- ✓ Fast Turnaround: Most results available within 24–48 hours.
- ✓ Nationwide Coverage: Thousands of testing centers across the U.S.
- ✓ No Doctor's Visit Needed: Order your test online, visit the lab, and get results securely.
- ✓ Affordable Pricing: Transparent rates with no hidden fees.
Whether for employment, school, healthcare clearance, or personal peace of mind, Lab Testing USA is your trusted partner for convenient TB testing anywhere in the United States.
Compare TB Tests: Skin Test vs. QuantiFERON-TB Gold vs. T-SPOT.TB
Choose the right test for employment, school, immigration, or routine screening. Nationwide labs, same-day appointments, fast results.
TB Skin Test (TST/PPD)
Two-step process with a return visit in 48–72 hours for reading.
- Low cost, widely accepted
- Requires return visit
- BCG vaccine may cause false positives
QuantiFERON-TB Gold (IGRA)
Single-visit blood test; lab measures interferon-gamma release.
- No return visit required
- Unaffected by BCG vaccination
- Lab-based; rapid turnaround
T-SPOT.TB (IGRA)
Single-visit blood test; counts TB-specific T-cell “spots.”
- No return visit required
- Unaffected by BCG vaccination
- Useful when QFT is indeterminate
Frequently asked questions about TB Testing
1. What does a TB test involve?
Answer: A TB test can involve either a skin test (PPD) or a blood test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold or T-Spot) to detect the presence of Tuberculosis bacteria.
2. How accurate are TB tests performed at Lab Testing USA?
Answer: Our TB tests are conducted in certified laboratories and are known for their high accuracy and reliability in detecting TB infection.
3. How long does it take to get TB test results?
Answer: TB blood test results are usually available within a few days, while skin test results require a follow-up visit within 48-72 hours for interpretation.
4. Why is TB testing necessary for employment in Hattiesburg, MS?
Answer: Many employers in Hattiesburg, MS require TB testing to ensure a safe and healthy workplace, especially in health care and educational settings.
5. Can TB testing be performed for school requirements?
Answer: Yes, TB testing is commonly required for school admissions to prevent the spread of tuberculosis among students and staff.
6. What precautions should I take if I test positive for TB?
Answer: If you test positive for TB, it's important to follow up with healthcare providers for further evaluation and potential treatment to prevent active disease development.
7. Can I schedule a same-day TB test in Hattiesburg, MS?
Answer: Yes, Lab Testing USA offers the convenience of same-day scheduling for TB tests at various locations including Hattiesburg, MS.
8. Is TB testing safe during pregnancy?
Answer: TB blood tests are generally safe during pregnancy, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
9. Are there any specific preparations required before a TB test?
Answer: Most TB tests do not require special preparations, but it is advisable to inform the testing staff about any recent vaccinations or medical history.
10. Where can I take a TB test in Hattiesburg, MS if I don't have insurance?
Answer: Lab Testing USA provides affordable TB testing options, and some state health departments or clinics may offer free or low-cost TB testing services as well.
TB Testing in Hattiesburg, MS
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, known as the 'Hub City,' is strategically located in the southern part of the state, offering a focal connecting point to various parts of Mississippi and beyond. Its unique location contributes to its vibrant culture and development, making it a vital economic and social hub.
The city hosts a population that reflects a rich diversity, with races and ethnic groups contributing to a dynamic community landscape. According to recent demographics, Hattiesburg houses a population of approximately 45,000 residents, offering a small-town feel with the amenities of a larger city.
Education is a cornerstone of Hattiesburg, anchored by the University of Southern Mississippi. The university is a significant employer in the area and contributes to a vibrant academic and cultural atmosphere, drawing students and academics from across the country.
Healthcare and retail are other primary sectors within the city, with Forrest General Hospital and a variety of shopping centers serving as major employers. These facilities ensure residents have access to essential services, bolstering the city's role as a regional epicenter.
Recreational opportunities abound in Hattiesburg, with parks, trails, and cultural attractions offering entertainment for residents and visitors alike. The Longleaf Trace, a popular rail trail, offers miles of scenic paths for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Hattiesburg also celebrates a commitment to the arts, with numerous galleries, live performances, and festivals enriching the cultural landscape. These events attract tourists and foster a strong sense of community pride and identity.
With a blend of history, culture, and economic growth, Hattiesburg represents a thriving city that maintains its southern charm while embracing the future. Its strategic location, robust education system, and community resources make it an appealing place for both residents and visitors.