Tuberculosis (TB) Prevention Program

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial disease that spreads from person to person through the air, through coughing, sneezing, laughing or singing. TB usually attacks the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys or the spine. Not everyone infected with TB germs becomes sick and those who have active disease may not always have symptoms. TB can be easily treated with antibiotics.

If you have been around someone who has active TB disease or you are worried about exposure, contact Student Health Services (316) 978-4792 or the Sedgwick County Health Department.

What You Need to Know About Tuberculosis (PDF)

» Learn more about Tuberculosis

 

Student Health Services (SHS) is required by State of Kansas law (K.S.A. 65-129e and K.S.A. 65-129f) to complete tuberculosis screening of all new and reactivated students attending Wichita State University.

Below are the different types of Tuberculosis Prevention programs that Student Health Services manages.

International Students (Students born outside the U.S. and Canada)

TB screening is required for all newly admitted students who were not born in the U.S. or Canada. Before enrolling in any classes, all new foreign-born students are required to have TB screening. After arrival to Wichita, new foreign-born students must:

  • Contact the International Education Office and complete your check-in and immigration processes. 
  • Make an appointment for tuberculosis screening and testing in the myShockerhealth portal. Walk-in appointments are not available.
  • After your tuberculosis screening and testing appointment is made, complete the Tuberculosis Risk Questionnaire in the portal as directed. This questionnaire must be completed prior to your appointment time.
  • Testing may be required to determine your TB status. Testing is done through a blood test called Interferon Gamma Release Assay (QFT). 

    • Interferon Gamma Release Assay (QFT) $100.00
      The charges will be filed with health insurance. Any remaining balance will be placed on your student account.

      • If the QFT test is positive, a chest X-ray is required to rule out active Tuberculosis disease. UHCSR will be filed for charges.
  • Once your tuberculosis testing is complete, your hold will be removed and you will be able to enroll for classes.
  • If you do not complete the TB requirement, you will be asked to complete the testing before returning to classes. This could also affect your Visa status.
Domestic Students (Born inside the U.S. and Canada)

TB screening identifies individuals who may be at increased risk of tuberculosis infection and may need further follow up or testing.

  • A link will be sent to your myWSU email account. Please check your email and click on the link to fill out the information as indicated. Once you have completed this step, if any additional information is needed, Student Health will contact you via your myWSU email account. If no email is sent please log into your myWSU account and click on the Tuberculosis link and complete the survey.
  • The online screening must be completed regardless of any previous documentation submitted to SHS.
  • A current phone number will be required for contact if follow-up is needed.
  • Failure to complete this screening will result in a “hold” on your myWSU account and could prevent you from enrolling until screening is complete.
  • Students requiring a follow-up will be contacted by Student Health Services. Follow-ups may include a visit with a SHS nurse, a TB skin test or blood test called Interferon Gamma Release Assay (QFT). The student is responsible for the cost of any follow up or testing if needed.

    • Interferon Gamma Release Assay (QFT) $100.00
      The charges will be filed with health insurance. Any remaining balance will be placed on your student account.

      • If the QFT test is positive, a chest X-ray is required to rule out active Tuberculosis disease. UHCSR will be filed for charges.

      TB Skin Test $45.00
      A Mantoux TB skin test can be administered any day but Thursday. You must return to Student Health Services within 48 to 72 hours after receiving your test for the test to be read. There may be times (before holidays, etc.), when Student Health cannot administer this test.