WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis: module 2: screening: systematic screening for tuberculosis disease

This operational handbook provides practical guidance for implementing WHO recommendations on systematic screening for tuberculosis (TB) disease. Developed as a companion to the WHO consolidated guidelines on tuberculosis, the publication supports countries in planning, implementing and evaluating screening interventions aimed at improving early detection of TB and reducing transmission, morbidity and mortality. It outlines the rationale, principles and objectives of provider-initiated TB screening and describes how screening strategies should be adapted according to epidemiological context, risk groups and health-system capacity.

The handbook presents a six-step framework for designing and implementing TB screening programmes, including assessment of the local situation, prioritization of high-risk populations, selection of screening and diagnostic algorithms, implementation planning and programme monitoring. It reviews available screening tools such as symptom screening, chest radiography, molecular WHO-recommended rapid diagnostic tests, computer-aided detection technologies and C-reactive protein testing. Specific operational guidance is provided for screening among people living with HIV, children, household contacts, prisoners and other vulnerable populations. The document also addresses ethical considerations, access to care, integration with other health services and measures to minimize stigma, discrimination and harm associated with TB screening.