[Preventing TB among immigrants; aiming for an integrated approach to infectious diseases]

Tuberculosis (TB) still occurs frequently in the Netherlands among immigrants from countries where the disease is highly endemic, despite the mandatory TB screening upon settling in the Netherlands. The TB-ENDPoint study shows that immigrants from populations at risk for TB are prepared to be screened for latent TB infection (LTBI) and to complete preventative treatment. Cost-effectiveness analysis will have to determine whether and in which target groups screening can replace the present X-ray screening for TB. A targeted approach, in which LTBI screening is combined with screening for other infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C and HIV, could favourably influence cost-effectiveness. Further research into implementation, involving all stakeholders, would be useful to optimize combined screening.