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Tuberculosis surveillance in a long-term care facility.
R J McDonald1, M N Mulvihill, M A Hsu
1University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103-2757, USA.
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Tuberculous infection affects over 27% of nursing home residents, with higher rates in non-white individuals. This study offers a model for assessing tuberculosis transmission in long-term care facilities.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gerontology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health concern, particularly in congregate settings like nursing facilities.
- Assessing TB infection prevalence is crucial for implementing effective control strategies in vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of tuberculous infection among residents of a large New York City nursing facility.
- To identify risk factors associated with tuberculous infection within this population.
- To establish a model for epidemiologic data collection in long-term care settings.
Main Methods:
- A two-step Mantoux tuberculin skin test was administered to 455 residents.
- Data on demographics, including age, sex, and birthplace, were collected.
- Tuberculin skin test results were analyzed to determine infection prevalence and associated factors.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of tuberculous infection was 27.5%.
- Infection rates were similar between native-born (28.8%) and foreign-born (26.1%) residents.
- Tuberculous infection rates were higher in non-white residents and showed a decline with increasing age. A 10% booster effect was observed.
Conclusions:
- Tuberculous infection is prevalent in this nursing facility population.
- Age and race are associated with tuberculous infection rates.
- The study provides a valuable model for evaluating TB infection and transmission in long-term care facilities.