Airborne Pathogens

1.1 Define airborne pathogen.

Microorganisms which travel in air and cause disease.
1.2 Define Tuberculosis infection.
Condition where a small number of tubercle bacilli are present and not multiplying. Is not
clinically active TB.
1.3 Define Tuberculosis disease.
Active illness. TB bacteria multiplying and attacking different parts of the body.
1.4 Explain how tuberculosis is transmitted.
Through air from one person to another. When a person with active TB disease of lung or throat
coughs. TB droplet nuclei can stay in air for several hours.
1.5 List 3 activities used to prevent and control tuberculosis in a correctional setting.
Screening, Containment, Assessment
1.6 Explain when staff must wear a NIOSH approved respirator.
When entering the room of a prisoner or transporting a prisoner with suspected or confirmed
TB.