Prevalence of occupational tuberculosis among healthcare workers in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease of public health concern caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). The disease is on the increase rate of transmission among healthcare more especially among nations with high burden of HIV and low economic status. The study assessed the prevalence of tuberculosis among healthcare workers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increase rate of developing active tuberculosis than the general populations, more particularly these of the high TB burden counties with limited resources on infectious prevention and control measure.

Methods: a retrospective cohort study was used to assess the prevalence of tuberculosis among healthcare workers from 2006-2020 in Kaduna State. Thirty-six (36) Health facilities were selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Tuberculosis (TB) central register was reviewed and data on related variables were collected using a checklist.

Results: of the 6325 confirmed active TB cases 10 were documented among healthcare workers. Out of which 02 were TB/HIV coinfected and 03 were satisfied death.

Conclusion: in conclusion the prevalence of TB among HCWs in Kaduna State is very low while the death due to TB among HCWs is high in the state. It's recommended that a prospective cohort study should be conducted to document the actual prevalence of tuberculosis among healthcare workers. The reporting system and proper documentation of TB in healthcare workers should be strengthening.