MEDIA RELEASE

The state Department of Health has acquired an adequate supply of purified protein derivative (PPD) solution used for tuberculosis (TB) skin testing and resumed providing the tuberculin skin test (TST) in all DOH TB clinics statewide Monday, July 15, 2013.

Availability of TB test solution is returning to normal throughout Hawaii and the DOH encourages medical providers, clinics, and health care settings to resume providing the TST to their clients.

A national shortage of PPD prompted the state to issue a 120-day temporary suspension of TB clearance requirements that are mandated in Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 164, for school personnel, students, food handlers, and workers in health care, domiciliary care, daycare, and residential care facilities.

The temporary suspension of requirements for TB clearance expires Aug. 9, 2013 and state requirements for TB clearance will resume at that time.

Students enrolling in post-secondary school for the first-time in Hawaii may receive additional guidance directly from their university or college.

“We anticipate that there will be a high demand for testing, especially with the new school year approaching. To meet this demand as smoothly as possible, and in collaboration with our public health nurses, we have expanded the hours and staffing at DOH testing locations statewide,” said Dr. Elizabeth MacNeill, Acting TB Control Branch Chief. “Fortunately, the DOH tuberculosis program has moved back to our permanent and familiar location in Kalihi at 1700 Lanakila Avenue.”

A full listing of DOH TB testing locations and hours as well as TB clearance requirements can be found on the DOH TB Control Branch website at www.health.gov/health/tb

For more information on tuberculosis or TB testing, the public may call the Hawaii TB Control Branch at (808) 832-5731 or visit www.hawaii.gov/health/tb