Tuberculosis (TB) Testing & Treatment in Fort Collins, CO

Whether you think you’ve come in contact with Tuberculosis (TB), need to be tested for your workplace, or are beginning to show symptoms, AFC Fort Collins will be with you every step of the way. Our urgent care clinic offers both types of TB tests with no appointment needed.

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

TB is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually attacks the lungs, but it can affect other parts of the body, like the kidneys, spine, or brain

TB is spread through the air when someone with active TB disease coughs, sneezes, or speaks. You can’t catch TB by touching surfaces, sharing food or drinks, or shaking hands.

There are two types of TB:

• Latent (Inactive) TB: You have the bacteria in your body, but you don’t show symptoms and can’t spread it.
• Active TB: The bacteria are multiplying, and you’re likely experiencing symptoms. This form is contagious, especially if it involves the lungs.

While TB is less common in the U.S. today, it still occurs, and screening remains an important tool for stopping its spread.

Why is it Important to Be Tested for TB?

Many people who have TB don’t feel sick at all, especially those with latent TB. But without treatment, latent TB can become active, making you sick and potentially contagious. That’s why screening is so important.

You may need a TB test if:

• You’ve been in close contact with someone who has TB.
• You’ve lived in or traveled to a country where TB is common.
• You work or volunteer in high-risk environments like healthcare, shelters, or correctional facilities.
• You’re applying for school, employment, or immigration where TB testing is required.
• You have a weakened immune system.

At AFC Fort Collins, we offer:

• TB Skin Test (Mantoux): A small injection under the skin, followed by a follow-up in 48–72 hours.
• TB Blood Test (IGRA): A blood draw that’s often preferred for people who’ve had the BCG vaccine.

Symptoms of TB

Symptoms of Active TB can vary, but common signs include:

• A persistent cough (lasting three weeks or more)
• Coughing up blood or mucus
• Chest pain
• Night sweats
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite

Keep in mind: Latent TB has no symptoms. The only way to know you have it is through screening.

Treatment for TB

If you test positive for TB, don’t panic, treatment is available and effective. The approach depends on whether you have latent TB infection or active TB disease:

• Latent TB is treated to prevent it from becoming active. Common treatment includes daily or weekly antibiotics for 3 to 6 months.
• Active TB requires longer treatment, usually a combination of antibiotics taken for 6 to 12 months. It’s crucial to take the medications exactly as prescribed. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat.

At AFC Fort Collins, we’ll guide you through what to do next if your test comes back positive. While we don’t provide long-term TB treatment onsite, we’ll refer you to local specialists or public health resources and make sure you get started on the right path.

Think you need a TB Test? Schedule One Today

Our urgent care staff is here to provide expert support for you. Protect yourself and your community, consider getting a TB test today. We’re open daily, accept most insurances, and take walk-ins.