Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
A multidisciplinary method to map potential tuberculosis transmission 'hot spots' in high-burden communities
E J Murray1, B J Marais, G Mans
1Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. emmajanes.murray@gmail.com
Background:
Global control of the tuberculosis (TB) epidemic remains poor, especially in high-burden settings where ongoing transmission sustains the epidemic. In such settings, a significant amount of transmission takes place outside the household, and practical approaches to understanding transmission at community level are needed.
Objective:
To identify and map potential TB transmission 'hot spots' across high-burden communities.
Setting And Design:
Our method draws on data that qualitatively describe a high-burden community in Cape Town, South Africa. Established transmission principles are applied to grade the potential TB transmission risk posed by congregate settings in the community. Geographic information systems (GIS) technology then creates a visual map, locating potential transmission 'hot spots' in the community.
Results:
Drinking places (shebeens), clinics and churches (often gatherings in confined homes) emerge as gathering places that potentially pose a high transmission risk, particularly if located in overcrowded and impoverished areas of the community.
Conclusion:
This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that combining qualitative techniques with GIS mapping may improve our understanding of potential TB transmission within a community and guide public health interventions to enhance TB control efforts.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Tuberculosis

