Tuberculosis preventive therapy in Sierra Leone: early implementation gaps and lessons learned
Farma-Grant L, Kanu JS, Molleh B, Kamara IF, Kamara ARY, Sesay N, Lahai WK, Fofanah B, et al. (18 authors)
Public health action · 2026-05
Abstract
Background In 2023, Sierra Leone started tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT) implementation. The tuberculosis programme recommends four contacts per index case for tracing and screening. Methods This study was to assess the performance of early implementation of contact tracing, screening, and TPT uptake in five regional hospitals. Results Of 905 index cases recorded, 1,222 contacts were traced and screened by community health workers. Of these, 433 were enrolled into TPT, and 353 (82%) completed the TPT regimen. Eighty out of 353 (18%) on TPT were lost to follow-up. Conclusion Deficiencies in documenting contacts and logistical constraints to trace, screen, and follow up for enrolment and completion of TPT need to be addressed for TPT scale-up.