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Tuberculosis: is the past once again prologue?
1Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, MD.
American Journal of Public Health
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Tuberculosis control has historically focused on contagion, but a 1985 resurgence necessitates renewed interest in all control methods. Future success hinges on sustained efforts to prevent another tuberculosis resurgence.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) has historically been attributed to genetic factors, environmental miasmas, and patient contact.
- Control efforts for TB predominantly focused on preventing contagion through treatment and vaccination.
- A significant TB resurgence in 1985 prompted a re-evaluation of TB control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine historical approaches to tuberculosis control.
- To assess the impact of the 1985 tuberculosis resurgence on control strategies.
- To explore the future of tuberculosis elimination in the United States.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical tuberculosis control strategies.
- Analysis of the impact of the 1985 tuberculosis resurgence.
- Discussion of potential future tuberculosis control and elimination efforts.
Main Results:
- Past TB control heavily emphasized managing infectiousness and preventing infection.
- The 1985 resurgence highlighted the limitations of existing control measures.
- Significant knowledge gaps and necessary actions remain in TB control.
Conclusions:
- Sustained and comprehensive efforts are crucial for tuberculosis control.
- The risk of resurgence remains if control measures are relaxed.
- Achieving tuberculosis elimination requires ongoing vigilance and innovation.