The Use of Germicidal Lamps to Control Tuberculosis in Healthcare Facilities

Abstract

The transmission of tuberculosis in healthcare settings is a recognized hazard, and recent outbreaks involving multidrug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis have heightened workers' concerns. Much of the transmission of tuberculosis that occurs in healthcare settings is from patients with unrecognized active disease who are not on effective therapy or who are not isolated for the entire period–from admission until their infection is under control. This article discusses the use of environmental and engineering control measures, in particular germicidal lamps, to reduce healthcare worker exposure to mycobacteria.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has described the use of germicidal lamps as controversial the American Thoracic Society has considered them supplemental interventions not intended to substitute for standard tuberculosis control practices, and some occupational health specialists have questioned their safety. On the other hand, some physicians believe that germicidal lamps are underused and the hazards associated with their use exaggerated. Given the constraints associated with many engineering controls and with respirators, it is clear we need to have available the widest choice of interventions to ensure the best protection for all workers and clients. This article discusses where germicidal lamps fit among tuberculosis control measures and addresses general questions about their use.