The prevalence of contagious diseases varies from one country to another. Accordingly, MedLabs has chosen tests for the most commonly spread contagious diseases to be included in a suggested ‘basic’ testing panel for foreigns who come to Jordan to work in homes, offices, beauty centers and other locations. In addition to this basic panel of tests, we have also listed some optional but recommended tests that can be performed upon the employer’s request.
Basic testing panel
Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This virus can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. Hepatitis B is transmitted by direct contact with blood or body fluids of an infected person, including saliva, sweat, urine and through sexual contact. Since about 30% of people carrying the Hepatitis B virus show no signs or symptoms, laboratory diagnosis of Hepatitis B infection is important. Detection of the Hepatitis B virus is characterized by the appearance of certain viral markers including Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) in the blood. Hepatitis B vaccine is widely available for all age groups to prevent Hepatitis B virus infection.
Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is a serious, slow progressing, contagious disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It can be transmitted through direct contact with blood or blood products. HCV can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. A high proportion (between 60-80%) of those who contract the virus become chronically infected, however some infected individuals show no signs or symptoms. No vaccine is available for hepatitis C. This test detects the presence of antibodies to the virus, indicating current or past infection with HCV.
HIV (Antigen/Antibody): HIV testing indicates whether a person is infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which causes AIDS. As many HIV-positive people are unaware that they are infected with the virus, initial HIV testing for foreign workers can be done by detecting antibodies against HIV.This test can show the presence of the antigen as well as , if the body was exposed to the virus & can detect the virus (Antigen) after 2 weeks of exposure.
Urine analysis: A frequently performed test that gives a general indication of the individual’s overall state of health and is especially useful for identifying renal and urinary tract infections.
Stool analysis: Particularly important for food handlers, the inspection of feces may yield important diagnostic information in cases of dysentery, parasitic infections, gastrointestinal bleeding and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Complete Blood Count: This test is used to evaluate morphology (form and structure) of red cells, white cells and platelets as indicators of anemia, leukemia and reaction to inflammations or infection.