P-233 INCIDENCE RATE OF LATENT MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Abstract Introduction Exposure to biological agents is the main occupational risk factor for healthcare workers. The most frequently implicated pathogenic agents in cases of occupationally acquired infection are the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C and hepatitis B viruses, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the incidence rate of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection among healthcare professionals. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted between 2018 and 2021, focusing on healthcare professionals who underwent Interferon Gamma Release Assay testing. Results A total of 1,236 Interferon Gamma Release Assay tests were performed for early latent Tuberculosis screening and treatment, with 62 positive results. The incidence rate of latent Tuberculosis showed a downward trend over the study period, with rates of 9.18% in 2018, 5.26% in 2019, 2.97% in 2020, and 3.05% in 2021. Nurses (38.7%) and hospital aides (30.65%) had the highest number of cases among all professional categories. Discussion Our findings indicate a downward trend in incidence, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic and stringent infection control measures. This highlights the potential of adequate infection control measures in preventing nosocomial transmission of tuberculosis. Conclusion Our study underscores the crucial role of latent Tuberculosis as a major concern for hospital occupational health. Early screening and treatment for latent Tuberculosis, can significantly lower the risk of active Tuberculosis development. Detecting latent Tuberculosis early on and implementing effective infection control measures, including organizational strategies, are essential to fight Tuberculosis among healthcare professionals.