NCJ Number
134779
Date Published
1992
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This guide provides clear, accurate information to health care staff on the prevention and control of tuberculosis (TB) in correctional facilities.
Abstract
TB has made a comeback after a decline in the number of cases since 1953; it is accompanying the epidemic of HIV infection. TB cases occur overall at least three times more often in correctional facilities than in the general adult population. Conditions that facilitate the spread of TB are common in correctional facilities; many are old structures with inadequate ventilation systems. Problems with overcrowding are compounded by the mobility of inmates within and between facilities. This guide first discusses the nature of TB infection, how it is spread, and the connection between TB and HIV infection. Regarding TB control in correctional facilities, the guide advises that every correctional facility should appoint one staff member as TB control officer to oversee TB control and prevention efforts. An effective TB control program in a correctional facility should consist of surveillance, containment, and assessment activities. Guidelines are delineated for the design and implementation of each of these aspects of a TB control program. 14 suggested readings, a protocol for risk assessment for HIV testing in persons with TB infection or disease, a sample confidential tuberculosis summary record, and 7 references