XDR tuberculosis: an indicator of public-health negligence

The plan recommends undertaking rapidsurveysof XDR tuberculosis, enhancing laboratory capacity and improving technical capacity to respond to the condition, implementing infection control, developing new drugs and rapid diagnostics, and increasing access to antiretroviral treatment. Treating MDR tuberculosis is feasible and effective, even in low-income countries, if based on sound public-health practice including good laboratory infrastructure, appropriate treatment regimens, proper management of side-effects, and sufficient resources to maintain adherence and prevent further amplification of resistance.1" In 2000, the Green Light Committee was created to provide a comprehensive programme for MDR tuberculosis, and to increase access to second-line drugs worldwide while ensuring their proper use to prevent increased drug resistance."