WHO policy on TB infection control in health-care facilities, congregate settings and households

Overview

TB infection control is a combination of measures aimed at minimizing the risk of TB transmission within populations. The foundation of infection control is early and rapid diagnosis, and proper management of TB patients. TB infection control requires and complements implementation of core activities in TB control, HIV control and health-sys- tems strengthening. It should be part of national infection prevention and control policies because it complements such policies – in particular, those that target airborne infections.

The evidence base for the policy was established through a systematic literature review. The review highlighted some areas where evidence supports interventions that add value to TB infection control. A number of recommendations were developed, based on this evidence and on additional factors, such as feasibility, programmatic implementation and anticipated cost.