Effect of a latent tuberculosis infection programme for healthcare workers in a country with an intermediate tuberculosis burden

Background Management of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among healthcare workers (HCWs) is crucial for the prevention of nosocomial tuberculosis (TB) transmission. We aimed to determine the effect of an LTBI programme for HCWs in a tertiary care hospital in a country with an intermediate TB burden. Methods In 2013, baseline LTBI screening was implemented for newly hired doctors and nurses, along with annual screening of HCWs in high-risk departments. HCWs with LTBI were also provided with treatment. Since 2017, all HCWs without an LTBI test result have been tested for LTBI. We assessed the annual incidence of active TB among HCWs between 2013 and 2020. Additionally, we evaluated the incidence of active TB among HCWs employed at the hospital in 2020, with a specific focus on those who had undergone LTBI tests between 2013 and 2018, considering their LTBI test results and treatment status. Results The incidence of active TB among HCWs significantly decreased between 2013 and 2020. The average risk reduction for pulmonary TB was 10.2% per year (95% CI, 1.0-19.0; P=0.034). Among HCWs employed at the hospital in 2020, 4354 individuals underwent LTBI tests between 2013 and 2018. Of them, 927 (21.3%) tested positive. Nine (1.5%) of 588 without LTBI treatment developed active TB. Among the 1285 HCWs who underwent follow-up testing, 62 (4.8%) converted, and one (4.3%) of the 23 without treatment developed active TB. None of those who received treatment were diagnosed with active TB. Conclusion The LTBI programme significantly reduced the incidence of active TB in HCWs. LTBI screening and treatment should be implemented, particularly in countries with a high or intermediate TB burden.