NCJ Number
139291
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 54 Issue: 7 Dated: (October 1992) Pages: 98,100,102-103
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The incidence of tuberculosis (TB) among inmates has been gradually increasing since 1984, largely due to the cases of TB in those with HIV infection; therefore, correctional personnel must understanding how to prevent it, discover it, and deal with it in correctional institutions.
Abstract
In 1882, scientist Robert Koch discovered that a specific germ causes tuberculosis. The tubercle bacillus is difficult to eradicate because it can survive in a dormant state in the human body for many years, grows slowly compared to common germs, and initially causes subtle and gradual symptoms. About 10 percent of people with TB infection will develop active disease at some time. Current treatment involves using at least three drugs for 6 months. Jails and prisons must have thorough TB surveillance and control programs for both inmates and staff. One health professional in each facility should be responsible for receiving reports, analyzing data, and overseeing the program. The most crucial point for a TB surveillance program is during intake for new inmates and during hiring for new staff. Intake and annual screening, and the use of two-stage testing to discover false negatives, should be included in the program. In some high-risk settings, screening every 6 months may be recommended. All inmates with significant skin test reactions should be tested for HIV, and all inmates who are HIV-positive should have a chest x ray, regardless of the results of their skin tests. 2 references