[Proposed protocol for the prevention of tuberculosis transmission among health workers. Application to the DLGS 626/94 and successive modifications. AIPO-Tuberculosis Working Group].

This article presents the AIPO-TB proposal for protection of health care workers from risks related to exposure to airborne biological agents and especially TB, according to law 626/94. The risk of contagion among health care workers arises mainly from contact with contagious patients (not diagnosed or not isolated after diagnosis). The proposal puts forward classification criteria for health structures and services according to risk level. It also suggests procedures for risk limitation (respiratory isolation and individual protection) and epidemiological and health surveillance. Guidelines for a tuberculin survey, vaccination and special risk situations are also provided.