Public Health Policies on Tuberculosis

Public health policies on tuberculosis are primarily concerned with preventing outbreaks. Tuberculosis is a global health problem and drug-resistant tuberculosis is becoming more common. Because TB is spread so easily, it presents a serious risk to public health in the United States.

Control

• The Public Health Service Act gives the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the authority to detain and examine persons suspected of carrying tuberculosis. Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies enforce this law upon direction from the HHS and CDC.

Containment

• Public health agencies rely on isolation and quarantine to control the spread of tuberculosis and other communicable diseases. Isolation and quarantine may be voluntary or compelled by public health authorities. Federal public authorities are authorized to release individuals from isolation or quarantine if they agree to comply with monitoring and surveillance.

Customs and Border Protection

• Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may detain travelers at borders and in Customs at airports if they have been notified of a potential carrier of tuberculosis. The CBP also assists quarantine officials in distributing health alerts and information to travelers about known risks and prevention measures.

Air Travel

• The CDC provides the Transportation Security Administration and commercial airlines with a "Do Not Board" list of individuals suspected of carrying communicable tuberculosis. The TSA has the authority to order carriers to deny boarding to individuals who pose a threat to passengers.