Tuberculosis among health-care workers in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The risk of transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from patients to health-care workers (HCWs) is a neglected problem in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Most health-care facilities in these countries lack resources to prevent nosocomial transmission of tuberculosis (TB).

Methods and findings

We conducted a systematic review to summarize the evidence on the incidence and prevalence of latent TB infection (LTBI) and disease among HCWs in LMICs, and to evaluate the impact of various preventive strategies that have been attempted. To identify relevant studies, we searched electronic databases and journals, and contacted experts in the field. We identified 42 articles, consisting of 51 studies, and extracted data on incidence, prevalence, and risk fa

SUBMITTER: Joshi R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1716189 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature