Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to occur in New Zealand. Approximately 300 cases of TB are diagnosed each year.
Pātiki and Waharua Kōpito patterns
On this page
Tuberculosis (TB) control in the 21st century faces many challenges at the global, regional and national level.
The problems of poverty, adherence to treatment and stigma still prevail, while increasing drug resistance and HIV co-infection demand new approaches.
Due to a number of manufacturing issues which have affected global vaccine supplies, BCG vaccine was not available in New Zealand between 2016 and mid 2018.
The vaccine is now available from public health community BCG vaccination clinics and in-hospital vaccinations. For more information see BCG vaccine and vaccinator endorsement.
For more information on TB, including symptoms and immunisation, go to the Health Information and Services website:
Epidemiology
The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) under contract with the Ministry of Health contributes to the national public health surveillance effort.
ESR produces an annual report which summarises the descriptive epidemiology of TB notifications (disease and latent infections) in New Zealand.
Publications
Guidelines for Tuberculosis Control in New Zealand, 2019
The Guidelines for Tuberculosis Control in New Zealand 2019 contains information on the diagnosis, treatment and management of patients.
Tuberculosis Case Management for People In Correctional Facilities, 2018
The publication provides guidance for the staff of corrections facilities, public health services and clinical TB services in New Zealand, to enable them to carry out tasks relating to the case management of people with active TB disease or with latent TB infection in corrections facilities.
Communicable Disease Control Manual
The Communicable Disease Control Manual seeks to inform and assist those at the frontline of public health action, namely the medical officers of health, health protection officers and staff at public health units.
The manual describes the standard practice that public health services would normally follow in regard to the prevention and control of notifiable diseases such as tuberculosis.
Tuberculosis - Communicable Disease Control Manual
Review of Neonatal BCG Immunisation Services in New Zealand, 2007
This review evaluates the neonatal BCG immunisation service in New Zealand.
Resources
Related websites
BCG vaccine AJV - Immunisation Advisory Centre
Related content
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Tuberculosis vaccine (goes to another website)
The tuberculosis (TB) vaccine is free for tamariki under 5 years of age who have a higher risk of catching TB. -
Tuberculosis (goes to another website)
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that usually affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It can be inactive for many years before it becomes active. Tuberculosis can be very serious for those who get it.