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Clinical aspects of TB

Public Health aspects

Strategy for control of tuberculosis in Hong Kong :.

The incidence of tuberculosis has declined slowly over the last few decades but may have reached a plateau. There are many possible reasons for this, such as improved notifications, and ageing of the population. Despite the provision of a comprehensive service, there is no room for complacency. Tuberculosis is associated with HIV infection which is predicted to increase in the future, particularly in Asia. Multi-drug resistance is also a potential problem area. The detection and control of tuberculosis must be seen as a priority for all medical practitioners and other health care workers.

The strategy for control is based on the following activities, the first four of which are particularly relevant in Hong Kong.

- case finding

- effective chemotherapy

- Treatment of latent TB infection (LTB)

- BCG vaccination

- Health education