[Protocol proposal for the management of tuberculosis cases for healthcare Local Authority].

Abstract

TB is still a major public health problem and a threat to global health security. In Italy, TB control is consistent with the WHO global strategy, in which the role of prevention and, within it, contacts tracing and their management are emphasized. In this work, a protocol for the correct and homogeneous management of TB cases, at local level, is described in all its phases, from reporting to contacts management. The containment of the diffusion of the infection and the prevention of new outbreaks depend on the immediate identification of the index case and the proper performance of the epidemiological investigation. For this reason, the translation of scientific evidence into Recommendations and Guidelines is essential, and of these into operational protocols for the local level, with a clear indication of actions and responsibilities.