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Published on: September 5, 2017

Tuberculosis in healthcare workers caring for a congenitally infected infant

Francoise Mouchet1, Valérie Hansen, Inge Van Herreweghe

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, St. Pierre University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium.

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology
|January 8, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Congenital tuberculosis in a premature infant led to nosocomial transmission, primarily affecting healthcare workers (HCWs). Delayed diagnosis and close contact were key factors in tuberculosis spread within the hospital setting.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neonatology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Congenital tuberculosis is a rare but serious condition.
  • Nosocomial transmission of tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant risk in healthcare settings, especially in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Observation:

  • A 29-week-old premature infant diagnosed with congenital tuberculosis at 102 days of age was the source of exposure.
  • A prospective investigation was conducted in a Brussels NICU involving infants, healthcare workers (HCWs), and visitors.

Findings:

  • Tuberculosis transmission occurred among HCWs in close contact with the infant, with six (19%) of 32 primary care nurses and physicians showing tuberculin skin test (TST) conversions.
  • Among 97 exposed infants, 34 were identified as high-risk, with 27 receiving preventive isoniazid; no infants or family members evaluated were infected.
  • Delayed diagnosis and close proximity were identified as critical factors in TB transmission.

Implications:

  • Congenital tuberculosis in neonates presents a risk for nosocomial transmission to healthcare workers.
  • Prompt diagnosis and effective infection control measures are crucial to prevent TB spread in NICUs.
  • This case highlights the importance of vigilance for rare infections in vulnerable populations.
Abstract

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