Muscat: The Ministry of Health within the Sultanate of Oman has introduced a new mandate for individuals applying for residency: compulsory latent tuberculosis (TB) screening.
This initiative is a proactive step aimed at curbing the transmission of TB within the community by identifying and treating individuals with latent TB before it progresses into an active form of the disease.
The screening protocol will encompass the following procedures:
- Blood Test: Applicants will be subjected to a blood test at a certified private clinic.
- Chest X-ray: Should the blood test yield positive results, applicants will be required to undergo a chest X-ray at a certified private facility.
- Physician Evaluation: Following the completion of the chest X-ray, applicants will be required to visit a government Medical Fitness Center for an evaluation by a physician.
- Free Treatment: Should treatment be necessary, the Ministry of Health will cover the costs associated with the treatment of latent TB.
By implementing this mandatory screening, the Ministry of Health aims to foster complete adherence to the screening process and to prevent the further spread of TB within the community.
