Issues facing TB control (2.1). Tuberculosis control in refugee populations: a focus on developing countries.

Abstract

Today's worldwide tuberculosis epidemic and the movement of a growing number of refugees overlap geographically and have made tuberculosis control in refugee populations an issue of increasing importance. However, in developing countries, where both of these problems are concentrated, tuberculosis control in refugee populations remains a largely unmet need. Experience shows that despite difficult field conditions, tuberculosis control programs can be managed successfully in this setting. The analysis of information available from previous experiences served as the basis for formulating the main policies which, if applied consistently, will reduce morbidity, mortality and transmission of tuberculosis among refugee populations living in camps. The recommendations given are in line with those of the guideline recently produced by the World Health Organization.