The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued an All Facilities Letter addressing the nationwide shortage of Tuberculin Skin Test Antigens. The letter provides guidance for healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, to request program flexibility for using alternate testing methods. CDPH has developed proposed regulations allowing the use of any test for tuberculin infection recommended by the CDC and licensed by the FDA. These regulations are currently under review by the Office of Administrative Law. In the meantime, healthcare facilities can use the attached template letter to request program flexibility from District Offices, which will expedite the process. The CDC recommends substituting the Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood tests to identify tuberculosis during the shortage. Facilities should contact their local District Office for further questions.

Summaries are generataed using AI. Check important information.