Latent tuberculosis infection among health care workers at a general hospital in Santiago de Cuba

The prevalence and risk factors for tuberculosis among healthcare workers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of contracting TB, particularly when in high tuberculosis (TB) burden settings. Routine surveillance data and evidence are limited on the burden of TB amongst HCWs in Indonesia. We aimed to measure the prevalence of TB infection (TBI) and disease among HCWs in four healthcare facilities in Yogyakarta province in Indonesia, and explore risk factors for TBI. A cross-sectional TB screening study targeted all HCWs from four pre-selected facilities (1 hospital, 3 primary care) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Voluntary screening included symptom assessment, Chest X-ray (CXR), Xpert MTB/RIF (if indicated) and tuberculin skin test (TST). Analyses were descriptive and included multivariable logistic regression. Of 792 HCWs, 681 consented (86%) to the screening; 59% (n = 401) were female, 62% were medical staff (n = 421), 77% worked in the one participating hospital (n = 524), and the median time working in the health sector was 13 years (IQR: 6-25 years). Nearly half had provided services for people with TB (46%, n = 316) and 9% reported ever having TB (n = 60). Among participants with presumptive TB (15%, n = 99/662), none were diagnosed microbiologically or clinically with active TB disease. TBI was detected in 25% (95% CI: 22-30; n = 112/441) of eligible HCWs with a TST result. A significant association was found between TB infection and being male (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.02 (95%CI: 1.29-3.17)), currently working in the participating hospital compared to primary care (aOR 3.15 (95%CI: 1.75-5.66)), and older age (1.05 OR increase per year of life between 19-73 years (95%CI: 1.02-1.06)). This study supports prioritisation of HCWs as a high-risk group for TB infection and disease, and the need for comprehensive prevention and control programs in Indonesia. Further, it identifies characteristics of HCWs in Yogyakarta at higher risk of TBI, who could be prioritised in screening programs if universal coverage of prevention and control measures cannot be achieved.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and disease in healthcare workers in a tertiary referral hospital in Bandung, Indonesia

Background

Healthcare workers (HCWs), especially in high tuberculosis (TB) incidence countries, are at risk of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and TB disease, likely due to greater exposure to TB cases and variable implementation of infection control measures.

Aim

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of tuberculin skin test (TST) positivity, history of TB and to identify associated risk factors in HCWs employed at a tertiary referral hospital in Bandung, Indonesia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to August 2018. A stratified sample of the HCWs were recruited, screened by TST, assessed for TB symptoms, history of TB disease and possible risk factors. Prevalence of positive TST included diagnosis with TB after starting work. HCWs with TB disease diagnosed earlier were excluded. Survey weights were used for all analyses. Possible risk factors were examined using logistic regression; adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) are presented.

Results

Of 455 HCWs recruited, 42 reported a history of TB disease (25 after starting work) and 395 had a TST result. The prevalence of positive TST was 76.9% (95% CI 72.6-80.8%). The odds increased by 7% per year at work (95% CI 3-11%) on average, with a rapid rise in TST positivity up to 10 years of work and then a plateau with around 80% positive.

Discussion

A high proportion of HCWs had a history of TB or were TST positive, increasing with longer duration of work. A package of TB infection control measures is needed to protect HCWs from Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.

Prevalence and incidence of tuberculosis in health workers: A systematic review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence and incidence of tuberculosis in health workers.

METHOD

Systematic literature review, according to the protocol of the Joanna Briggs Institute and report following PRISMA guidelines. Primary studies containing data on the incidence or prevalence of active or latent tuberculosis infection in health workers were considered.

RESULTS

2,310 potentially relevant studies were identified in ten databases, of which 24 were included. The prevalence of latent tuberculosis varied between 0.1% and 62.0%, and the annual incidence rate varied from 1.4% to 11.4%. A meta-analysis combining data from the studies identified the prevalence as 28% (95% CI 21-36). Occupational risk factors are related to direct contact with patients having active tuberculosis, and more years of professional experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidences show that tuberculosis is an important occupational problem in health care; however, there are still gaps in information about the epidemiology of tuberculosis in health workers, mainly related to the risk factors.

Tuberculosis infection status and risk factors among health workers: an updated systematic review

Tuberculosis (TB) infection is a common occupational risk for health workers (HWs) and poses a threat to the patients under their care and to other HWs. Hence, the development of a prevention strategy is crucial. We conducted a study to understand the status and risk factors of TB infection among HWs. The existing literature was searched for all published reports from 1 August 2010 to 31 December 2018, related to TB among HWs according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The inclusion criteria were: (1) study participants working in a health care facility; (2) TB cases diagnosed by medical professionals; (3) original research articles; and (4) English reports in a peer-reviewed journal. We finally included 61 studies from 642 articles searched initially. The TB infection rate in HWs was higher than that of the general population. Based on 39 studies, the prevalence of TB in HWs (tuberculin skin test positive) was 29.94%. In contrast, the global burden of latent TB infection was 23.0% (95% uncertainty interval: 20.4%–26.4%) in 2014. The risk factors of TB among HWs were aging, long duration of employment, nursing professionals, lack of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccination, and low body mass index. HWs have an increased risk for TB infection, which can cause secondary infections in patients or other HWs. An effective prevention strategy must be developed to enable early diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Upregulation of PD-1 expression on circulating CD8+ but not CD4+ T cells is associated with tuberculosis infection in health care workers

Background

Health care workers (HCWs) are at risk for occupationally acquired Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and tuberculosis (TB) disease due to repeated exposure to workplace tubercle bacilli. To determine whether continual mycobacterial stimulation correlates with increased expression of inhibitory T cell receptors, here we compared PD-1 receptor expression on surfaces of circulating T cells between naïve (uninfected) HCWs and HCWs with latent TB infection (LTBI).

Result

Data collected from 133 medical workers who met study selection criteria were included in the final analysis. QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-​Tube (QFT-GIT) testing yielded positive results for 32 HCWs, for an overall LTBI rate of 24.1%. Multivariate analysis identified HCW length of service > 15 years as an independent risk factor for a positive QFT-GIT result. In addition, comparisons of blood T cell subgroup profiles between QFT- and QFT+ groups indicated QFT+ subjects possessed greater proportions of mature (TM), transitional memory (TTM) and effector memory (TEM) CD4+ T cell subgroups and lower proportions of naïve T cells (TN). Moreover, the QFT+ group percentage of CD8+ T cells with detectable surface PD-1 was significantly higher than the corresponding percentage for the QFT- group. Meanwhile, no statistical intergroup difference was observed in percentages of CD4+ T cells with detectible surface PD-1.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that upregulated PD-1 expression on circulating CD8+, but not CD4+ T cells, was associated with latent TB infection of HCWs. As compared to other hospitals, occupational TB infection risk in our hospital was substantially mitigated by implementation of multitiered infection control measures.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12865-021-00433-9.

Prevalence of and risk factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection in a Latin American region

Tuberculosis (TB) represents a health problem in Colombia, and its control is focused on the search for contacts and treatment of TB cases underscoring the role of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) as a reservoir of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The burden of LTBI in Colombia is unknown. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of LTBI and identify the associated risk factors. In this cross-sectional study, we recruited participants from four health care centers in Cali, Colombia. The participants were eligible if they were aged between 14 and 70 years, and all participants answered a survey evaluating their medical history and sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. LTBI status was based on tuberculin skin test (TST) positivity using two thresholds: ≥10 mm (TST-10) and ≥15 mm (TST-15). The magnitude of the associations between independent factors and dependent outcomes (LTBI status and TST induration) were evaluated by logistic regression and generalized linear models, respectively. A total of 589 individuals were included with TST positivity rates of 25.3% (TST-10) and 13.2% (TST-15). Logistic regression showed that being between age 40 and 69 years (OR = 7.28, 95% CI [1.62–32.7]), being male (OR = 1.71, 95% CI [1.04–2.84]), being employed (OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.02–2.38]), and having a low intake of alcohol (OR = 2.40, 95% CI [1.13–5.11]) were risk factors for TST positivity, while living in the north zone (OR = 0.32, 95% CI [0.18–0.55]), living in the suburb zone (OR = 0.28, 95% CI [0.15–0.52]) and having a secondary education (OR = 0.49 95% CI [0.29–0.83]) lowered the risk of TST positivity. The generalized linear model showed that the previous predictors, as well as a low body mass index, had an effect on TST reaction size. The LTBI prevalence found in the population was moderate, reflecting the continuous transmission of M. tuberculosis. Social factors seem to play a decisive role in the risk of LTBI. Employed males, who are over 40 years of age, are overweight, have a lower level of education and have a low intake of alcohol (50–100 mL, once/week) should be a priority group for prophylactic treatment as a strategy for TB control in this city.

Latent tuberculosis infection in healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries: an updated systematic review

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection (LTBI) and TB disease.We conducted an updated systematic review of the prevalence and incidence of LTBI in HCWs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), associated factors, and infection control practices. We searched MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science (January 1, 2005-June 20, 2017) for studies published in any language. We obtained pooled estimates using random effects methods and investigated heterogeneity using meta-regression.85 studies (32 630 subjects) were included from 26 LMICs. Prevalence of a positive tuberculin skin test (TST) was 14-98% (mean 49%); prevalence of a positive interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) was 9-86% (mean 39%). Countries with TB incidence ≥300 per 100 000 had the highest prevalence (TST: pooled estimate 55%, 95% CI 41-69%; IGRA: pooled estimate 56%, 95% CI 39-73%). Annual incidence estimated from the TST was 1-38% (mean 17%); annual incidence estimated from the IGRA was 10-30% (mean 18%). The prevalence and incidence of a positive test was associated with years of work, work location, TB contact and job category. Only 15 studies reported on infection control measures in healthcare facilities, with limited implementation.HCWs in LMICs in high TB incidence settings remain at increased risk of acquiring LTBI. There is an urgent need for robust implementation of infection control measures.

The Role of Powerlessness Among Health Care Workers in Tuberculosis Infection Control

Due to their occupational exposure in health care settings, health care workers (HCW) have increased risk of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. They face challenges to remain up-to-date with evidence-based clinical practices and translate educational information into actions in infection control practices. Our purpose was to examine this "knowledge-action" gap about how HCWs understand their occupational M. tuberculosis risk and use recommended infection control measures in clinical practices in the Dominican Republic (DR). We conducted 10 focus groups with 40 physicians and nurses at two tertiary-level DR institutions. Using grounded theory methods, we developed a theoretical model to describe the decision-making process related to adherence to M. tuberculosis infection control measures in clinical practice. Findings highlight intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influenced the observed knowledge-action gap related to M. tuberculosis infection control practices in two DR health institutions.

Prevalence and risk factors for latent tuberculosis infection among healthcare workers in Nampula Central Hospital, Mozambique

BACKGROUND

Healthcare workers in high tuberculosis burdened countries are occupationally exposed to the tuberculosis disease with uncomplicated and complicated tuberculosis on the increase among them. Most of them acquire Mycobacterium tuberculosis but do not progress to the active disease - latent tuberculosis infection. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection among healthcare workers in Nampula Central Hospital, Mozambique.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study of healthcare workers was conducted between 2014 and 2015. Participants (n = 209) were administered a questionnaire on demographics and occupational tuberculosis exposure and had a tuberculin skin test administered. Multivariate linear and logistic regression tested for associations between independent variables and dependent outcomes (tuberculin skin test induration and latent tuberculosis infection status).

RESULTS

The prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection was 34.4%. Latent tuberculosis infection was highest in those working for more than eight years (39.3%), those who had no BCG vaccination (39.6%) and were immunocompromised (78.1%). Being immunocompromised was significantly associated with latent tuberculosis infection (OR 5.97 [95% CI 1.89; 18.87]). Positive but non-significant associations occurred with working in the medical domain (OR 1.02 [95% CI 0.17; 6.37]), length of employment > eight years (OR 1.97 [95% CI 0.70; 5.53]) and occupational contact with tuberculosis patients (OR 1.24 [95% CI 0.47; 3.27]).

CONCLUSIONS

Personal and occupational factors were positively associated with latent tuberculosis infection among healthcare workers in Mozambique.

Updates on Knowledge, Attitude and Preventive Practices on Tuberculosis among Healthcare Workers

Ranking as the most communicable disease killer worldwide, tuberculosis, has accounted with a total of 9.6 million new tuberculosis cases with 1.5 million tuberculosis-related deaths reported globally in 2014. Tuberculosis has remain as an occupational hazard for healthcare workers since 1920s and due to several tuberculosis outbreaks in healthcare settings in the early 1990s, the concern about the transmission to both patients and healthcare workers has been raised. Healthcare workers have two to three folds greater the risk of active tuberculosis than the general population. Several studies on knowledge, attitude and practices on tuberculosis among healthcare workers worldwide have revealed that majority of the participated healthcare workers had good knowledge on tuberculosis. Most of the healthcare workers from South India and South Africa also reported to have positive attitude whereas a study in Thailand reported that most of the healthcare providers have negative attitude towards tuberculosis patients. Nevertheless, majority of the healthcare workers have low level of practice on tuberculosis prevention. An improved communication between healthcare workers and the patients as well as their families is the key to better therapeutic outcomes with good knowledge, attitude and preventive practice towards tuberculosis.

Healthcare workers as vectors of infectious diseases

Nosocomial infections cause considerable morbidity and mortality. Healthcare workers (HCWs) may serve as vectors of many infectious diseases, many of which are not often primarily considered as healthcare-associated. The probability of pathogen transmission to patients depends on several factors, such as the characteristics of a pathogen, HCW and patient. Pathogens with high transmission potential from HCWs to patients include norovirus, respiratory infections, measles and influenza. In contrast, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis are unlikely to be transferred. The prevention of HCW-associated transmission of pathogens include systematic vaccinations towards preventable diseases, continuous education, hand hygiene surveillance, active feedback and adequate staff resources.

Latent tuberculosis infection in healthcare workers at a community hospital in Qatar

Routine screening of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is recommended as an essential component in the prevention of TB transmission in healthcare facilities.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of LTBI among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a community hospital.

METHODS

A descriptive study was carried out at The Cuban Hospital from August 2012 to May 2013 for newly hired medical staff. As part of the preemployment evaluation, the tuberculin skin test (TST) and QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test (QFT-G) were performed. The information regarding the demographics, profile, experience as HCWs, any previous contact with TB patients and travels abroad were collected.

ANALYSIS

Test of independence, Student's t test and Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney were used. For hypothesis testing, a significance level of 0.05 was adopted.

RESULTS

TST results were positive in 14 subjects (6.9%), of which 11 were nurses, and 12 were females. QFT-G results were positive in six subjects (3.0%), who were older than those with negative results (44.5 vs. 38.9 years) and had more experience as HCW (21.7 vs. 16.8 years). Compared with subjects negative for QFT-G, positive subjects reported a higher frequency of both direct contact with tuberculosis patients (83.3% vs. 25%) and previous travels to countries with high TB incidence.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of LTBI was low, especially when QFT-G results were considered, highlighting the history of traveling to countries with high TB incidence as an associated key factor.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Latent Tuberculosis Infection among Health Care Workers in China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Health care workers (HCWs) are at risk of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). In China, tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem, but the prevalence of LTBI in HCWs especially in the hospital for pulmonary diseases has not been assessed enough. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and putative risk factors of LTBI among HCWs in a chest hospital and a TB research institute in China.

Methodology/Principal Findings

A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs in China in 2012. LTBI was assessed by T-SPOT.TB, and information on HCWs was collected using a standardised questionnaire. Risk factors for LTBI were analyzed by univariate and multivariate regression. The overall prevalence of LTBI among HCWs was 33.6%. Analyzed by job category, the highest prevalence was found among laboratory staff (43.4%). In the different workplaces, the proportion of LTBI was significantly higher among the high risk workplaces (37.4%) compared to the low risk workplaces. The duration of employment had a significant impact on the prevalence of LTBI. Positive T-SPOT.TB test results accounted for 17.6%, 16.8%, 23.5%, 41.8% and 41.6% in groups of ≤2, 3–5, 6–10, 11–20, and >20 working years respectively. In multivariate analysis, job categories (Laboratory staff [2.76 (95% CI: 1.36; 5.60)], technician staff [2.02 (95% CI: 1.12; 3.64)]); working duration as a HCW for 11 to 20 years [3.57 (95% CI: 1.46; 8.71)], and 20 years above [3.41 (95% CI: 1.28; 9.11)]; and the history of household TB contact [2.47 (95% CI: 1.15; 5.33)] were associated with increased risk of LTBI.

Conclusions/Significance

Prevalence of LTBI estimated by T-SPOT.TB is high among Chinese HCWs and working duration, job category and the history of household TB contact were associated with increased risk. These data highlight adequate infection control measures should be undertaken.