Outbreak of tuberculosis at a Newcastle public house: the role and effectiveness of contact screening.

ABSTRACT

We report an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) that originated in a public house, involving 12 cases. The presumed index case was a regular patron. Initial screening of close contacts identified no further cases. Six cases of TB then presented symptomatically among other regular patrons. Contact screening was extended to include all regular patrons and bar staff. In total, 110 individuals were screened. One case was detected and three children were placed on chemoprophylaxis. Transmission of M. tuberculosis between patrons of a public house may cause community outbreaks of TB. Where cases present outside a close-contact screening program, extended contact screening must be considered.