Effectiveness of school tuberculosis outbreak control measures in Hefei

Objective To investigate the e fectiveness of school tuberculosis outbreak emergency response measures in Hefei.Methods Retrospective analysis was conducted on 7 school-based tuberculosis(TB) outbreaks in Hefei during 2011-2016.Active tuberculosis screening of close contacts,as well as infected patients were carried out.Results During 2011-2016,7 cases of school tuberculosis outbreaks in Hefei were reported,including 5 cases of public health emergencies.The shortest period from initial diagnosis to close contacts screening was 43 d,the longest of which was 231 d.The average delay time in diagnosing was 43 d,and the average delay time in disposition was 4 d.The difference between the average positive rates of close contacts and general contacts was of statistical significance(x2 =52.115,P<0.01).Sixteen cases were diagnosed.In the PPD screening,the positive rate was 5.51%-29.41%,with an average of 12%;after expanded screening,PPD positive rate was 0-11%,with an average of 4.21%,with significant difference(X:=52.117,P<0.01).Five patients received experts consulting and preventive treatment.Conclusion Early detection of pulmonary tuberculosis cases is the fundamental approach of tuberculosis outbreak control.Patient's history of TB exposure and tuberculin skin test(TST) helps assess latent tuberculosis infection.It is necessary to establish consultation system to control school tuberculosis outbreak and transmission.