Tuberculosis
(TB)

Description
Tuberculosis is primarily an infection of the lungs but it can affect all parts of the body. It is caused by bacteria. Most infected children have a mild fever that resolves without treatment. Often the presence of infection is first noted when the child develops a positive tuberculin skin test (after a Mantoux test). TB is spread by contact with airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing, singing, talking etc.) from a person who has active TB.


Incubation Period
About 4-12 weeks from infection to positive tuberculin skin test. The risk of active disease is greatest within the first year or two after infection, although the germs may lie inactive for many years.


Infectious Period
Young children rarely transmit TB, even if they have a positive tuberculin skin test. Adults are infectious as long as they have active TB in the lungs and are not under treatment.


Controlling the Spread of Infection
Because children who have inactive TB disease are not usually infectious, they may continue to attend the centre with the approval of the health authority. However, a child or staff member with active TB should be excluded until treatment has been given for 1 month. Re-admit the child on the advice of a public health medical officer. If an active case of TB occurs at a child care centre, the health authority may suggest skin testing of employees, children and volunteers at the centre. Adults employed in child care centres should have a pre-employment health screen which includes a tuberculin skin test (Mantoux test) and a chest X-ray. Adults who have spent some time working overseas and then resume working with children should have a pre-employment TB health check before starting work again.


Treatment
People with TB will be given anti-TB drugs under the care of their doctor or the Chest Clinic.


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Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com