Tuberculosis Program

Professional

TB Prevention and Control

Correctional Facilities

• The TB Program is available for TB consultation; educational materials; contact investigation services; and referral information on the state’s clinical TB resources (RISE Clinic, Hasbro TB Clinic).
• A primary reason for the high risk of TB infection and TB disease in correctional facilities is the disproportionate number of inmates who have risk factors for exposure to TB or, if infected, for development of active disease. These risk factors include infection with HIV, substance abuse, and being a member of a lower socioeconomic population that has poor access to health care.
• Residents of correctional facilities also are at increased risk for TB because many of these facilities are overcrowded and/or have poor ventilation, both of which promote the transmission of TB.
• The federal guidelines for TB control in correctional facilities advocate for the designation of a person or group responsible for the facility’s TB infection control program, which should include the following essential components:

1. Screening: Strategies for the prompt identification of inmates and employees with latent TB infection (LTBI) or TB disease. Provides guidance on when to use which screening methods (e.g. symptom screening, chest X-ray screening, TB skin test screening).

2. Containment: Strategies to prevent the transmission of TB, including isolation of infectious individuals, and prompt treatment of those with TB disease and infection using directly-observed therapy.

3. Assessment: Methods of monitoring and evaluating the above activities, including data collection and analysis on TB disease detection, completion of treatment success for TB disease and LTBI, and other indicators.

Related guidelines, laws, rules, and/or regulations:

State rule on intake screening (including TB skin test) for juvenile correctional services.

Click here for CDC TB guidelines sorted by category. (Select Correctional Facilities.)