Screen for tuberculosis
A sputum-based screen for tuberculosis, using an AFB smear and a sputum culture. TB is serious but treatable, and the earlier it is found the better.
No referral needed. If you have TB symptoms, see a clinic now rather than waiting.
How would you like to get tested?
Book a time
Reserve a slot at your nearest branch online, then walk straight in. Best if you want a guaranteed time.
Book nowWalk in
No appointment needed. Come through any branch, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 16:00.
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Not sure which tests you need? Message us on WhatsApp and we will help you decide.
WhatsApp usWhat does the screen involve?
Two sputum tests that look for the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, from a sample you cough up at the branch.
AFB smear
AFB Smear. A microscopy test that looks for acid-fast bacilli, the bacteria that cause TB. Gives a quick initial result.
Sputum culture
Sputum MCS. Microscopy, culture and sensitivity: grows any bacteria present to confirm TB and guide treatment. Culture takes longer.
Three steps, no GP needed
Book your visit
Book online and pick a branch. No doctor's referral.
Give a sputum sample
You cough up a sputum sample at the branch following simple instructions. An early-morning sample works best.
Get your results
Smear results in 2 to 5 working days; culture, if done, takes longer. A confidential report to share with your doctor.
Who is this for?
Most useful when you want to check for TB, ideally alongside a clinic visit if you have symptoms.
Lingering cough
A cough that has lasted more than two weeks.
Other symptoms
Night sweats, fever or unexplained weight loss.
Close contact
You have been around someone with TB.
Peace of mind
You want to rule TB in or out.
No referral
You can book without a doctor's referral.
Early is better
TB is very treatable when found early.
What people say
Friendly and competent staff. Both at reception and the nurse. A much simpler process than going through doctors. Thank you ladies.
The staff at reception as well as the nurses are friendly and professional. I've also always received results timeously. I would give 10 stars if I could.
Highly highly highly recommend. The experience was painless and the practice was inviting and well kept. The report was extremely detailed and informative and I would have this as top of my list for preventive care.
Amazing experience, highly professional staff. Very reasonable prices. Highly recommend.
I cannot recommend Juliette and her team enough, friendly and kind from the get go. Bloods were drawn with minimal discomfort and the labs came back quickly.
Excellent experience at Epicentre. The staff were professional, kind, and took time to explain everything clearly. The facility was clean, booking was easy, and I did not feel rushed.
What this does not do
TB is a serious but treatable infection. This screen supports a diagnosis; it does not replace seeing a doctor, especially if you have symptoms.
- If you have a cough lasting more than two weeks, cough up blood, night sweats, fever or unexplained weight loss, see a doctor or clinic now, do not wait for results.
- A negative smear does not fully rule out TB; the smear can miss early or low-level infection, so culture or further tests may be needed.
- If a result is positive, you need medical care; TB is treatable and treatment is available free at public clinics in South Africa.
- TB can spread to others through the air; a doctor will advise on treatment and any precautions.
- Results inform a discussion with a doctor; they are not a diagnosis on their own.
Quick answers
Three walk-in labs
Durban
Mon to Fri, 08:30 to 16:00
Johannesburg
Mon to Fri, 08:30 to 16:00
Round out the picture
Medically reviewed by Dr Samantha Naidoo, MB ChB, FCP (SA), Medical Director at Epicentre Walk-In Labs. Reviewed 2 June 2026. Epicentre Aids Risk Management (Pty) Ltd provides diagnostic laboratory testing and does not provide diagnoses, treatment or prescriptions to the public; results are intended to inform discussions with a registered healthcare practitioner.
Screen for tuberculosis
No doctor's referral, results in 2 to 5 working days. Book a slot at any branch, or message us if you are not sure where to start.