Latent tuberculosis infection prevalence in rural Madagascar.

BACKGROUND

Understanding latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) prevalence is crucial for the design of TB control strategies. There are no data on LTBI in rural Madagascar.

METHODS

Tuberculin skin tests were performed in 98 adults aged >15 y in five rural villages in the Ifanadiana district, Madagascar.

RESULTS

Of adults, 78.6% were positive for LTBI, ranging between 28.6% and 95.0% among villages. The majority (65.3%) showed an induration reaction of >15 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

LTBI prevalence is high in rural Madagascar. Long-term TB control strategies including LTBI testing and treatment must account for high and heterogeneous prevalence in remote, underdeveloped areas.