AOHC Encore 2022-106: How COVID-19 is Changing Tuberculosis Demographics

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video focuses on the importance of treating latent tuberculosis in the workplace to prevent the development of active tuberculosis. The 2019 guidance emphasizes the need for testing and treating tuberculosis in healthcare workers to reduce the incidence of active disease. Previously, the importance of treating latent tuberculosis in the workplace was not emphasized. However, the 2019 guidance aims to prioritize treatment as part of tuberculosis control. A companion document provides operational guidance on implementing the 2019 guidance in the workplace, offering detailed information on testing and treatment strategies for healthcare workers. Treating latent tuberculosis is crucial in preventing the progression to active disease and reducing transmission within the workplace. The 2019 guidance and companion document serve as valuable resources for healthcare facilities in implementing effective tuberculosis control measures.<br /><br />The video transcript consists of multiple presentations discussing tuberculosis (TB). The presentations primarily focus on changes in screening and testing guidelines, as well as treatment options for latent TB infection. The 2019 guidelines advise against annual TB testing for healthcare workers, except in higher-risk settings. Instead, the emphasis is on testing employees when they first join the workforce and providing necessary treatment. Short course treatment regimens, such as three months of INH plus rifapentine or four months of daily rifapentine, are recommended. Early detection and treatment of latent TB are highlighted as crucial in preventing the development of active TB. The potential role of technology in TB control is also discussed, including mobile apps for patient management, AI algorithms for analyzing chest x-rays and cough sounds, and 3D-printed vaccines. The need for a TB vaccine is mentioned, with several promising candidates in early trials. Overall, the presentations advocate for evidence-based guidelines, technological advancements, and an integrated approach to TB control for eliminating latent TB and reducing the burden of active disease.

Keywords

latent tuberculosis

active tuberculosis

workplace

treatment

2019 guidance

testing

healthcare workers

incidence

companion document

operational guidance

transmission

screening

treatment options