Latent TB and New Entrant Testing

What is Latent or Sleeping TB?

People with latent TB infection do not feel sick and do not have any symptoms. They are infected with the TB bacteria, but do not have TB disease. TB bacteria can sleep in your body for years.

The risk is that Latent TB can become active and make you ill and infectious to other people.

You are at risk of sleeping TB if:

  • You were born or lived in a high-risk country for more than 6 months.
  • Your chest x-ray was clear – sleeping TB does not show on x-rays
  • You have had a BCG vaccination – the vaccination does not protect you for life

Anyone who has arrived in the UK from one of these countries shown on the map below within the past 5 years can be tested.

Latent Tb Web

How can I find out if I have sleeping TB?

You will need a simple blood test or skin test which is FREE from your local TB service.

If your test shows you have sleeping TB we will give you FREE treatment to reduce the risk of it becoming active.

How can I get a blood test?

If you live in Slough, Windsor, Ascot, Maidenhead or Bracknell call 01753 63 6089 to book your test at our New Entrant Screening Clinic:

King Edward VII hospital
St. Leonard’s Rd

Protect yourself, your family and friends by getting tested now.

Tests are confidential and do not affect your right to remain in the UK.

Latent TB Leaflet

Find out more about Latent TB, also known as Sleeping TB by downloading the leaflet below.