Need answer today!! EE may have TB

GLC

We have an ee whose child has tested postive for TB. This employee works with families and newborns in their homes providing in-home visitation services. Can we force this ee to take a TB test. What if the test comes back positive? Should we suspend her from working until she has gotten the test results? This is in Kentucky.

Mike Maslanka

Tough question...you may---give the time frame---contact one of the editors to the kentucky employment law letter...you can get them by clicking on the looking for a lawyer bar...because the liability may be large,a little money up front may be a wise investment...regards,mike maslanka

Miriam George

Ask the employee to bring in the information from the medical facility on their child. This is not an unreasonable request. Even if the child has the TB germ, they may not be broken down with active TB. The key will be whether or not they are still approved for public contact.

I have had evidence of TB and a positive skin test (evidence that it had invaded my right lung and then later healed), yet I have never been "broken down" with active TB. I did have to undergo a 9-month regimen of drugs for the TB. I was approved for public contact at all times, although an H.R. Manager.

So, see if your employee will bring info on their child. The decision you make should be determined by the information you receive and guidance from your health care professional (in our state the County Health Departments are great for handling incidents of TB).

Good luck!