Passenger contact investigation associated with a transport driver with pulmonary tuberculosis.

Objectives: In October 2008, pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) was diagnosed in a driver who had transported 762 passengers in the District of Columbia metropolitan area during his infectious period. A passenger contact investigation was conducted by the six public health jurisdictions because of concern that some passengers might be infected with HIV or have other medical conditions that put them at increased risk for developing TB disease if infected.

Methods: Authorities evaluated 92 of 100 passengers with at least 90 minutes of cumulative exposure.

Timing of therapy for latent tuberculosis infection among immigrants presenting to a U.S. public health clinic: a retrospective study.

Background: In the U.S. more than half of incident tuberculosis (TB) cases occur in immigrants.

Improved adherence and less toxicity with rifampin vs isoniazid for treatment of latent tuberculosis: a retrospective study.

Background: Treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is an important aspect of tuberculosis control in the United States, but the effectiveness of this strategy is compromised by poor adherence to the recommended 9-month isoniazid regimen. In this study, we compared treatment completion and clinically recognized adverse drug reactions in patients prescribed 9 months of isoniazid therapy or 4 months of rifampin therapy for LTBI.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients who received LTBI treatment at a public health clinic.