Testing for tuberculosis infection and screening for tuberculosis disease among refugees arriving in European countries from Ukraine
This document provides an overview of public health guidance on testing for TB infection, TB preventive treatment and screening for TB disease, in the context of the mass influx of people arriving in European countries from Ukraine.
Executive summary
Testing for tuberculosis (TB) infection
Universal testing of refugees arriving in European countries from Ukraine for TB infection is not recommended. Specific groups should be considered for TB testing, such as household contacts of bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary cases or immunocompromised individuals (e.g. those preparing for dialysis).
Screening for TB disease
Universal screening for TB disease of refugees arriving in European countries from Ukraine is not recommended. In certain groups at risk of TB, such as people living with HIV or those who are contacts of TB patients, screening for TB disease is important, while in those without disease, assessment for TB preventive treatment is recommended.
