infections, the limitations of the TST and failure of (unsupervised) preventive treatment. However, the current study
focused on a relatively limited number of HCWs in which infection control measures failed. It needs to be emphasised
that a much greater number of infected HCWs have benefited from screening and preventive treatment. In conclusion, DNA fingerprint surveillance can be used to confirm expected and reveal unexpected cases of nosocomial transmission, thus providing the necessary evidence for policy makers and professionals to take appropriate action. High suspicion of tuberculosis by the clinician, adequate infection control measures by the hospital authorities and early identification of latent tuberculosis infection in healthcare workers by occupational specialists form the essential components
of a comprehensive package to prevent tuberculosis in healthcare workers.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to thank the public-health nurses and physicians of the Depts of Tuberculosis Control of the
Municipal Health Services who participated in this study.