The 2 guards with positive cultures had tuberculosis with DNA tests that matched the most common form in the inmates. Inmates with tuberculosis had been incarcerated about 15 times on average. This experience at one jail in one city may not apply to other jails in other cities. Jail is a common place where people can get tuberculosis infections. Inmates with tuberculosis can spread the infection to other inmates or to people who work in the jail.
Tuberculosis can spread to the community when inmates and workers leave the jail.
This study suggests that it is important to screen everyone who gets admitted to jail for tuberculosis. Those who have the infection should wear masks and stay apart from other people to prevent the spread on the infection. Annals Summaries for Patients are presented for informational purposes only. These summaries are not a substitute for advice from your own medical provider. If you have questions about this material, or need medical advice about your own health or situation, please contact your physician.