Outbreak of tuberculosis in a closed setting: views on transmission based on results from molecular and conventional methods.

Background: This study describes an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) in a nursing home for men with mental disorders where residency is lengthy or permanent. This type of setting can provide a model of transmission as contact with the rest of society is extremely limited.

Aim: To determine if cases of TB, diagnosed around the same time and in the same place, are linked based on results using molecular and conventional methods.