The new rules state that for any immigration medicals completed on or after May 1, 2024, a Polio booster (IPV) is required for all applicants aged 2 months and older, including all adults, unless proper documentation is provided of previous primary vaccination.
Tuberculosis (TB), a major public health challenge, has now surpassed COVID-19 as the leading cause of infectious disease-related deaths in 2023, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Though it may often remain hidden, TB can significantly impact both your health and the immigration process. Due to its potential to spread and its public health implications, TB is a primary focus in immigration medical exams. Knowing the difference between latent TB and active TB, including how each condition impacts immigration status, is vital for applicants facing the tuberculosis test for immigration.
From hidden to harmful, discover how both active and latent tuberculosis can influence your immigration journey!
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs, though it can also target other organs like the kidneys, spine, and brain. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that a quarter of the global population carries the TB bacteria, but not everyone develops active disease.
Active TB symptoms include a persistent cough, chest pain, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious. That's why TB screening is essential for immigration. A USCIS tuberculosis test helps ensure applicants are free from active TB and pose no public health risk.
Understanding the difference between latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and active tuberculosis is essential, especially when undergoing your immigration medical exam.
Latent TB screening is a crucial part of the immigration medical exam. Although not contagious, latent TB requires attention to prevent it from progressing to active TB. Having latent TB usually doesn’t prevent immigration approval but can complicate the process. Treatment for LTBI is highly recommended to prevent it from ever becoming active. This treatment is performed outside of the immigration examination process by the applicant’s personal doctor in cooperation with the local health department.
The detection of active TB during an immigration medical exam is a serious matter that can significantly impact your immigration status. If you test positive for active tuberculosis, you will need further diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the necessary treatment plan.
A positive test for active TB can result in immigration denial due to the public health risk it poses. Before their applications are approved, individuals will be required to complete a course of treatment and demonstrate they are no longer infectious. Based on the severity of the infection, additional treatments may be required to ensure the applicant is fit for travel and immigration. Once this is done, the denial will be reversed.
Managing tuberculosis screenings effectively plays a crucial role in your immigration process. Addressing latent or active TB with the proper steps ensures you’re prepared for the journey ahead. By staying informed and adhering to the required test and treatment protocols, you can smoothly manage the immigration process and confidently move toward a healthier, brighter future.
With Dr. Steven Wittenberg Gordon, your immigration medical exam, including TB testing, is in expert hands. His more than 20 years of experience as a U.S. Civil Surgeon make him the perfect partner for your immigration process.
Schedule an appointment today and take a step toward your future!
LTBI (Latent Tuberculosis Infection) means the TB bacteria are present but inactive. Active tuberculosis, on the other hand, means the bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms. People with active TB are contagious, while those with LTBI are not (yet).
TB is transmitted through the air when someone with active TB coughs, sneezes, or talks. The bacteria stay in the air for a while, making it easy to spread.
Treatment for active TB typically lasts six to nine months, and it involves taking multiple antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria from the body.
Individuals with latent tuberculosis infection are not contagious and can travel. However, it’s still important to undergo treatment to reduce the risk of developing active TB.
After completing treatment for active TB, you’ll need to prove that you are no longer contagious before your immigration visa can be approved. The timeline for this can vary, so it’s best to check with your doctor and immigration authorities. Liberal extensions are granted.
