Tuberculosis: Prevention and Control Training Course

What is Tuberculosis (TB) and how is it transmitted?

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB is transmitted through the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria. People nearby can inhale these droplets and become infected.

What are the key symptoms of active TB disease?

The key symptoms of active TB disease include a persistent cough lasting three weeks or longer, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How can workplaces prevent and control TB exposure?

Workplaces can prevent and control TB exposure by implementing several key strategies such as conducting regular risk assessments to identify potential TB exposure risks, utilizing engineering controls such as proper ventilation and negative pressure rooms, providing personal protective equipment (PPE) like N95 respirators for employees, ensuring regular TB screening and testing for employees, especially in high-risk environments and educating and training employees on TB prevention, symptoms, and proper use of PPE.

What are the standard treatments for active TB disease?

The standard treatment for active TB disease involves a combination of antibiotics taken over a period of 6 to 9 months. The most commonly used drugs are isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. It is crucial for patients to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the disease is fully eradicated and to prevent the development of drug-resistant TB.

What role do OSHA and CDC guidelines play in TB prevention and control?

OSHA and CDC guidelines provide comprehensive frameworks for preventing and controlling TB in various settings. OSHA's guidelines focus on workplace safety, including standards for respiratory protection (29 CFR 1910.134) and personal protective equipment (PPE) (29 CFR 1910.132). The CDC offers guidelines on TB screening, testing, treatment, and public health management. Together, these guidelines help ensure a coordinated and effective approach to TB prevention and control.