Exposure to TB during pregnancy

[cori]

I work with people who are resettling in permenant housing after being homeless. One of our latest referrals is an individual who is currently being treated for TB. I am 12 weeks pregnant.
Does anyone no if exposure to TB presents any particular risks to pregnancy.
My intution tells me that I shouldnt go anywhere near this client. (there are others that could support him) or am I talking out of ignorance.

[mummytosteven]

some information on TB and pregnancy

www.ukcoalition.org/tb/pregnancy.html

I would think it was best to be on the same side, and talk to a doctor/midwife about this before dealing with this client if you are concerned.

Did you not have the BCG immunization at school tho?

[cori]

Thanks I will check this out.
I did have BCG , but heard recently they only last for 10 years.

[mummytosteven]

erm that rings a bell. definitely one to talk through with midwife/doctor then I guess.

[LadyLazarus]

There are 2 types of TB, open + closed. The open stage doesn't last that long (not sure quite how long tho), and that's when it's infectious. People can be 'treated' for TB and be past the infectious stage.

Hope that helps!

[cori]

Thanks LL, that helps a lot.
This person is currently being treated, so that means he is passed the infectious stage, right?

[LadyLazarus]

Cori - I have scoured the net for more information, and found this:

"It usually takes lengthy contact with someone with active TB before a person can become infected. On average, people have a 50 percent chance of becoming infected with M. tuberculosis if they spend eight hours a day for six months or 24 hours a day for two months working or living with someone with active TB. However, people with TB who have been treated with appropriate drugs for at least two weeks are no longer contagious and do not spread the germ to others."

Couldn't find much on the chances of catching TB while pregnant, or anything around that, but I hope that helps!

[cori]

Excellent. Where did you find this information?

[LadyLazarus]

I think it was from this site, but just something I stumbled across while Googling!

www.medicalconsumerguide.com/primary_care/infectious_diseases/tuberculosis.html

P.S. I am a nurse, but don't have tons of experience with TB or pregnancy!