Tuberculosis in healthcare workers caring for a congenitally infected infant.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the extent of nosocomial transmission of tuberculosis among infants, family members, and healthcare workers (HCWs) who were exposed to a 29-week-old premature infant with congenital tuberculosis, diagnosed at 102 days of age.

DESIGN

A prospective exposure investigation using tuberculin skin test (IST conversion was conducted. Contacts underwent two skin tests 10 to 12 weeks apart. Clinical examination and chest radiographs were performed to rule out disease. Isoniazid prophylaxis was administered to exposed infants at higher risk.

SETTING

A neonatal intensive care unit in an urban hospital in Brussels, Belgium.

PARTICIPANTS

Ninety-seven infants, 139 HCWs, and 180 visitors.

RESULTS

Newly positive TST results occurred in HCWs who had been in close contact with the infant. Six (19%) of 32 primary care nurses and physicians had TST conversions and received treatment. Among the 97 exposed infants, 85 were screened and 34 were identified as at higher risk of infection. Of these, 27 received preventive isoniazid. None of the infants and none of the 93 other infants' family members evaluated were infected.

CONCLUSIONS

Congenital tuberculosis in an infant poses a risk for nosocomial transmission to HCWs. Delayed diagnosis of this rare disease and close proximity are the most important factors related to transmission.