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Characteristics: Gram positive rods, non-spore forming, non-motile, slightly curved, forming strands and cords, acid-fast staining, aerobic; found worldwide; transmitted by inhalation; very low infectious dose.
Incubation Period: From infection to primary lesion or significant tuberculin reaction - 4 to 12 weeks; risk of progressive pulmonary or extrapulmonary tuberculosis is greatest within 1 to 2 years after infection; may persist for lifetime as latent infection.
Symptoms: Initial infection usually goes unnoticed. Many infected individuals become carriers and show no symptoms. Fatigue, fever, cough, and chest pain may be experienced.
Laboratory-Acquired Infections: 176 reported cases with 4 deaths; fourth most commonly reported LAI.
What is a potential exposure? Aerosol or droplet exposure on the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth, needlestick or cut with contaminated sharp object, contact with broken skin.
Post-Exposure Treatment: Report to the UM Health Center during normal operating hours (if the exposure occurs after hours or on a weekend, wait until it opens) to get a tuberculin skin test (TST). The skin test will then need to be repeated in 12 weeks. Treatment is administered only after symptoms appear or a TST shows a seroconversion. Fill out a First Report of Injury Form.
If symptoms appear with no known incidence of exposure: Contact the UM Health Center for medical advice.
Prevention: Biosafety level 3 practices, containment equipment, and facilities; all manipulation of cultures and animal procedures must be performed in the BSC. Wear Tyvek suit, N95 respirator, and double gloves in the lab. Do not remove PPE from the lab. Use secondary containment for transport, storage, and handling of agent. All waste must be autoclaved before removal from lab. Disinfect work areas regularly with tuberculocidal disinfectant.
Reporting: Make note of the date and time of the incident and any relevant details. Inform your supervisor and a Biosafety Officer immediately.
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