Outbreak of pulmonary tuberculosis in children

A case of miliary tuberculosis in a 4-year-old child led to contact tracing, revealing 32 children with evidence of tuberculous infection. 3 adult cases were also identified. The source case was a mother who passed on the infection at two Christmas parties. Limited exposure to the organism caused infection, suggesting a virulent strain and a susceptible subgroup. A range of complications of primary tuberculosis in children was seen. Minor side-effects of the chemotherapeutic agents occurred in most children but only 3 suffered substantial toxic effects. The limited range of agents marketed in a presentation suitable for young children was a serious difficulty.