Childhood tuberculosis in sub-Saharan Africa: A call to action

Childhood tuberculosis outbreak in Africa: is it a matter of concern?

“…Although it is aimed at each patient specifically, it is a crucial step in halting the transmission chain 20 . In endemic locations, efforts should be focused on obtaining a precise, accurate, and quick diagnosis of childhood TB 23 . For better management in the pediatric age group and ultimately in the entire population, an improved diagnosis will result in the development of more accurate disease statistics and better epidemiological characterization 23 .…”

“…In endemic locations, efforts should be focused on obtaining a precise, accurate, and quick diagnosis of childhood TB 23 . For better management in the pediatric age group and ultimately in the entire population, an improved diagnosis will result in the development of more accurate disease statistics and better epidemiological characterization 23 . Childhood TB can be used to track the effectiveness of national TB control programs in the communities since childhood TB incidence is a predictor of adult contacts who have active TB 23 .…”

“…For better management in the pediatric age group and ultimately in the entire population, an improved diagnosis will result in the development of more accurate disease statistics and better epidemiological characterization 23 . Childhood TB can be used to track the effectiveness of national TB control programs in the communities since childhood TB incidence is a predictor of adult contacts who have active TB 23 . In addition to developing standard operating procedures to accommodate pediatric specimens other than sputum, including gastric aspirates and cerebrospinal fluid, national recommendations must address the routine use of Xpert MTB/RIF on all children with suspected TB 23 .…”

“…Childhood TB can be used to track the effectiveness of national TB control programs in the communities since childhood TB incidence is a predictor of adult contacts who have active TB 23 . In addition to developing standard operating procedures to accommodate pediatric specimens other than sputum, including gastric aspirates and cerebrospinal fluid, national recommendations must address the routine use of Xpert MTB/RIF on all children with suspected TB 23 . Children under the age of 5 should be included as test subjects in clinical trials for the development of new medications and vaccines 23 .…”