Guidance note on Bi-directional TB-COVID screening and screening of TB among ILI/SARI cases
All COVID-19 cases should be screened for TB symptoms using the 4-symptom complex (Cough for > 2 weeks, persistent fever for > 2 weeks, significant weight loss, night sweats), history of contact with TB case, history of TB and those symptomatic should be offered Chest X ray and upfront Nuclear Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) – CBNAAT/TrueNat) for diagnosis of Tuberculosis. Sample for TB should be collected in a segregated open or well-ventilated area under bright sunlight, identified exclusively for the purpose. Arrangement has to be made such that the sample reaches NAAT site in cold chain (transportation in ambient temperature using pre-frozen gel packs).
