DOH - TB TX Guidelines - 2023

National Guidelines on THE TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE 1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 2
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 3
LIST OF DEFINITIONS 4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5
1. INTRODUCTION AND RATIONALE 9
1.1 BACKGROUND 9
1.2 TB PREVENTIVE TREATMENT (TPT) 9
1.3 TESTS OF TB INFECTION: TUBERCULIN SKIN TESTS (TST) AND INTER-
FERON-GAMMA RELEASE ASSAYS (IGRA) 10
2. PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES 12
3. ORGANISATION OF THE GUIDELINES 12
4. ADULT, ADOLESCENT AND OLDER CHILD CONTACTS 13
4.1 TPT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO: 13
4.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE INDIVIDUAL: 13
4.3 MANAGEMENT OF TPT IN ADULT, ADOLESCENT, AND OLDER CHILD
(WEIGHING MORE THAN25 KILOGRAMS) CONTACTS 13
4.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst adult, adolescent, and older child contacts 13
4.3.2 TPT regimens for adult, adolescent, and older child (≥25kg) contacts 14
5. CHILD CONTACTS: CHILDREN WEIGHING LESS THAN 25 KILOGRAMS
AND INFANTS 16
5.1 TPT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO 16
5.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE CHILD: 16
5.3 MANAGEMENT OF TPT IN CHILDREN WEIGHING LESS THAN 25 KILOGRAMS 16
5.3.1 Evaluation of child contacts 16
5.3.2 TPT regimens for children weighing less than 25 kilograms 18
5.4 MANAGEMENT OF TPT IN CHILDREN LIVING WITH HIV (IRRESPECTIVE
OF TB EXPOSURE) 19
5.5 MANAGEMENT OF TPT IN TB-EXPOSED NEWBORNS (BABIES BORN
TO MOTHERS DIAGNOSED WITH PRE-NATAL OR PERI-PARTUM TB
OR WITH OTHER SIGNIFICANT TB EXPOSURE) 19
6. TPT IN PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN WITH TB EXPOSURE
OR LIVING WITH HIV 21
6.1 TPT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO ALL PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING
WOMEN (REGARDLESS OF THEIR HIV STATUS) WITH SIGNIFICANT TB
EXPOSURE 21
i
6.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE PREGNANT WOMAN: 21

6.3 MANAGEMENT OF TPT AMONGST HIVNEGATIVE AND HIV-POSITIVE
PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN WITH TB EXPOSURE 21
6.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst pregnant and breastfeeding women 21
6.3.2 Considerations for TPT initiation in pregnant and breastfeeding women living
with HIV: 22
6.3.3 TPT treatment options for pregnant and breastfeeding women 22
7. PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV (PLHIV): ADULTS, ADOLESCENTS, AND CHILDREN
IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE 23
7.1 WHO TPT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO 23
7.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE INDIVIDUAL LIVING
WITH HIV: 23
7.3 MANAGEMENT OF TPT FOR PLHIV 23
7.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst PLHIV 23
7.3.2 TPT regimens for PLHIV (adults, pregnant and breastfeeding women, adolescents,
and children 25 kilograms or more) 24
7.3.3 TPT regimens for children weighing less than 25 kilograms living with HIV 24
8. SILICOSIS 26
8.1 WHO TPT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO 26
8.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE INDIVIDUAL: 26
8.3 MANAGEMENT OF TPT FOR PEOPLE WITH SILICOSIS 26
8.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst silicosis 26
8.3.2 TPT regimens for adults with silicosis 26
9. OTHER HIGH-RISK GROUPS 27
10. PATIENT CATEGORISATION AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES 27
11. CLINICAL MONITORING OF PEOPLE ON TREATMENT 28
11.1 EDUCATION AND COUNSELLING OF ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS 28
11.2 FOLLOW-UP VISITS 28
11.3 ADVERSE EVENTS 28
11.4 DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS 30
11.5 TREATMENT INTERRUPTION AND DISCONTINUATION 30
12. MONITORING AND EVALUATION 32
ANNEXURES 34
ANNEXURE A: PHARMACOVIGILANCE FORM 35
ANNEXURE B: ADHERENCE PLAN 36
ANNEXURE C: TPT INTEGRATION INTO REPEAT PRESCRIPTION COLLECTION
STRATEGIES FOR CLINICALLY STABLE PLHIV ON ART 38
ii
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. General algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment using the Test and Treat Approach 10
Figure 2. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for adult, adolescent and older
child (≥25kg) TB contacts 15
Figure 3. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for child contacts or children living with HIV 17
Figure 4. Algorithm for TB preventive treatment algorithm for TB-exposed newborns or infants 20
Figure 5. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for adults and adolescents living with HIV 25
Figure 6. Illustration of the data flow process from the facility to national level and reporting timeline 32
Figure 7. Illustration of a cascade for HIV-positive clients 33
Figure 8. Illustration of a cascade for contacts 33
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Summary of TPT regimen options by patient type 11

Table 2. Patient categories and treatment outcomes 27
Table 3. Management of common adverse events 29
Table 4. Drug-drug interactions 30
Table 5. Management of individuals who miss doses of treatment 31
iii
PREFACE
Dr. S. S. S. Buthelezi
Director General: Health
Tuberculosis (TB), HIV and AIDS are the major This guideline has been revised based on the
causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. guidance provided by the World Health Organization
Modelling work conducted showed that a combination (WHO), local evidence and experience with TB
of interventions implemented at scale is required to preventive treatment (TPT) implementation. The
reach the 2025 End TB Strategy targets of reducing purpose is to guide implementation, the management
the TB incidence by 50 per cent and the TB mortality of patients started on TPT and the monitoring and
by 75 per cent. It is for this reason that the following evaluation requirements. It is intended for clinicians,
interventions were implemented: pharmacists and healthcare managers in the public
and private sector.
1. prevention of new infections and TB disease
I urge all healthcare workers to familiarise
2. early identification of people with TB through
themselves with the content of this guideline and
intensified and active TB detection strategies
effectively implement the recommendations thereof
3. reduction in loss to follow-up to prevent TB disease in identified high risk groups.
This intervention will reduce the burden of TB which
4. improvement of treatment outcomes
continues to kill many people in the country and
ensure that South Africans live long and healthy lives.
Despite the increased uptake of Isoniazid Preventive
Treatment (IPT) among people living with HIV and
child contacts under five years of age, many eligible
populations have still not received IPT, especially
among people living with HIV.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reversed the gains

made in TB control due to severe disruption of TB
screening, testing, and treatment services. More
effort is therefore required to ensure that we mitigate DR S S S BUTHELEZI
the losses incurred and catch up on progress against DIRECTOR GENERAL: HEALTH
our targets.
1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of these guidelines for TB preventive treatment took hard work by officials of the Department
of Health, and representatives from partner organisations. Amongst many, we wish to acknowledge the
contributions of the following:
• Members of the National TB Think Tank, especially the TB Prevention Task Team
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• United States (US) President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)
• The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria
2
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
ART Antiretroviral treatment

BCG Bacillus Calmette-Guérin
CCMDD Central chronic medicine dispensing and distribution
CHW Community health worker
CLHIV Children living with HIV
CXR Chest x-ray
DHMIS District Health Management Information System
DTG Dolutegravir
DSD Differentiated service delivery
DS-TB Drug-susceptible TB
FDC Fixed-dose combinations
HIV Human immunodeficiency virus
HLM High level meeting
IGRA Interferon-gamma release assay
IPT Isoniazid preventive treatment
IRIS Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome
LF-LAM Lateral flow urine lipoarabinomannan assay
LFT Liver function test
LTBI Latent tuberculosis infection
MDR-TB Multidrug-resistant TB
MMD Multi-month dispensing
PEPFAR President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief
PLHIV People living with HIV
PMTCT Prevention of mother-to-child transmission
PHC Primary healthcare
RPC Repeated prescription collection
SDGs Sustainable development goals
TB Tuberculosis
TBTC Tuberculosis Trials Consortium
TIER Three interlinked electronic registers
TLD Tenofovir / Lamivudine / Dolutegravir
TPT TB preventive treatment
TST Tuberculin skin test
UN United Nations
WHO World Health Organization
Xpert GeneXpert MTB/RIF (Ultra, or latest recommended version)
3HP 3 months of weekly isoniazid plus rifapentine
3RH 3 months of daily rifampicin plus isoniazid
6H 6 months of daily isoniazid monotherapy
3
LIST OF DEFINITIONS
Adherence The extent to which a person’s behaviour corresponds with agreed recommendations
from a healthcare worker for taking medication, following a diet and/or making lifestyle
changes
Adolescent A person aged 15 to 19 years
Child For practical purposes, children weighing >25kg (typically eight to ten years of age) can
be treated with adult doses of TB medications including for TB preventive treatment
(TPT). Children weighing >25kg can also usually produce sputum for TB testing. For
reporting purposes, children are defined as 0 to 14 years of age by WHO.
Evaluation The periodic assessment of the change in targeted results that can be attributed to
the programme intervention, or the analysis of inputs and activities to determine their
contribution to results
Infant A child under one year of age
Index patient A person (adult or adolescent) with infectious pulmonary TB
Latent TB A state of immune response to stimulation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens,
infection indicated by a positive tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assay
(IGRA) test, with no evidence of active TB disease
Monitoring The tracking of key elements of programme performance (inputs, activities and results)
on a regular basis to provide continuous information on progress towards achieving
goals, and alert staff and managers to problems, providing an opportunity for these to
be resolved early
Recent TB Contact with a person diagnosed with pulmonary TB in the last 12 months. The person
exposure may be from the same household, or be a close contact outside of the household
setting, e.g., a care provider, colleague, teacher, family member or friend
Significant TB Known exposure to a person (adult or adolescent) with pulmonary TB who shared
exposure the same enclosed space for one or more nights or for frequent or extended daytime
periods during the three months before the index patient starting their TB treatment.
Significant TB exposure can occur in any setting, e.g., the household, workplace,
place of learning or care. Therefore, the term “household contact” is confusing since it
is limited in scope and should no longer be used. “TB contact” will therefore be used
throughout this document.
TB contact All people (family members and other individuals; regardless of age and HIV status)
who have had a ‘significant TB exposure’ – that is: shared the same enclosed space
or shared living arrangement with a TB index patient for one or more nights or for
frequent or extended daytime periods during three months before the start of current
treatment in the TB index patient with pulmonary TB
TB disease Disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB can either be bacteriologically
confirmed or clinically diagnosed
TB exposed Infants born to mothers who were diagnosed with TB before or after the baby was
infants born, or other documented close TB exposure in the infant (e.g. another caregiver,
family member, day care provider)
Silicosis Lung fibrosis caused by the inhaling silica-containing
3HP three months of weekly isoniazid plus rifapentine
3RH three months of daily rifampicin plus isoniazid
6H six months of daily isoniazid monotherapy
4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Rationale for expanded eligibility for without symptoms, neither sputum testing nor chest
TPT: A TB test and treat approach x-ray (CXR) are therefore requirements to start TPT.
Sputum testing should be attempted in children who
It is essential that TB preventive treatment (TPT) is can expectorate spontaneously (typically >=25kg),
scaled up to reduce the burden of TB in South Africa. but if they are well (without symptoms) and unable to
Previously, TPT was offered only to people who were expectorate, they should start TPT, even if no CXR or
at the highest risk of progressing to TB disease after sputum testing is available.
exposure (i.e., children younger than five years of
age, and all people living with HIV, regardless of age). If unable to produce sputum, people considered for
However, to achieve TB elimination, it is imperative TPT should undergo clinical evaluation as a minimum,
to implement TPT more comprehensively for and a CXR where available. Other samples should be
everyone with significant TB exposure and all considered as clinically relevant. CXR is a valuable
other individuals at high risk of TB. Diagnostic tool to rule out TB disease in adults and in children,
evaluation processes, TPT initiation processes, TPT but its absence should not pose a barrier to starting
regimens, and clinical evaluation at follow-up will vary TPT in anyone – especially in children, if they are well
by age, HIV status, and pregnancy status. However, and have no symptoms.
TB testing and TPT should be offered to all people
with significant TB exposure or who have a high risk If test availability varies by setting, TB testing
of TB disease progression – i.e. a TB test and treat deficiencies should be urgently addressed in parallel
(offering either TPT or active TB treatment) approach. to excluding active TB disease and encouraging
The use of shorter duration TPT regimens, where TPT access. The National TB Prevalence Survey1
possible, will reduce the burden of TPT treatment on has highlighted the high burden of asymptomatic
individuals, households and on health services. TB amongst adults and adolescents, reflecting the
importance of having a low threshold for testing
In most instances, people who should be offered people for active TB, especially before offering TPT,
TPT will share a household with at least one person including in people not historically considered to be at
who is concurrently on TB treatment. Therefore, high risk of TB disease.
where possible, a ‘family-centred’ approach to
TPT initiation and adherence support should be It is important to recognise the difference between
adopted by integrated healthcare worker teams or testing for TB infection (e.g., TST, IGRA) and testing
health services where possible. It is also important for TB disease (Xpert/culture, chest x-ray, LF-
to consider the context of the household, and to offer LAM). Tests for TB infection are useful to detect TB
similar regimens to affected household members, infection, and to predict who is at the highest risk of
where possible. developing TB disease, but are not a requirement to
starting TPT. If tests of infection are not available,
TB test and treat approach: It is essential to rule this should not pose a barrier to TPT initiation. A
out TB disease before initiating TPT. Therefore, all positive test of TB infection means that the person is
individuals (adults, adolescents, children and infants) (or was previously) infected with M.tb, but does not
should always be evaluated for TB disease before indicate (or exclude) TB disease. Also, a negative
initiating TPT, including testing for active TB disease. test of TB infection does not mean that the person
Thereafter, the next decision, in the presence of is not actually infected with M.tb or is not at risk for
significant TB exposure or TB risk, is to either offer developing TB disease in the near future. Therefore,
TB treatment (in the presence of disease) or to tests of TB infection are no longer listed in these
offer TPT. In the past, uncertainty over diagnostic algorithms and not are not requirement to initiate
requirements and the limited availability of diagnostic TPT. Any lack of availability of tests of TB infection
tools were significant barriers to TPT access. The should not impact whether somebody is offered TPT
guiding principle for these revised guidelines is to or not. In individual clinical scenarios, tests of TB
help overcome several of these barriers. infection may be used by clinicians as available as
useful tests to determine TB infection status and the
All people considered for TPT should undergo risk future disease progression.
clinical evaluation (symptom check and physical
examination) and be tested with GeneXpert (Xpert), In contrast, testing (clinical evaluation and other test)
even if asymptomatic. TB testing strategies will vary for TB disease is required before disease can be
by age as younger children cannot spontaneously ruled out and should be made available to all people
expectorate sputum. Other clinically relevant before being offered TPT (refer to the section on
samples should be considered in children (gastric children for exceptions as clinically relevant).
aspirates, fine needle aspirates, stool). In children
5
People who require TPT People who have previously had TB (TB survivors)
are at higher risk of getting TB again and should be
TB contacts: All adults, adolescents and children considered for treatment of infection after another
(including newborns or infants) exposed to TB require significant TB exposure.
TPT once TB disease has been excluded through
evaluation – irrespective of HIV status, pregnancy, or Silicosis: People with silicosis have a significant risk
previous TB disease or treatment status. Significant of developing TB disease and should be considered
TB exposure can occur in any setting, e.g. in the for treatment of infection regardless of significant TB
household, workplace, place of learning or care, or exposure.
other. Therefore, the term “household contact” is
confusing (the definition is too narrow) and should Choice of regimen
no longer be used. Going forward, the term “TB
contacts” should therefore be used. After each TB In South Africa, the current TPT options include
exposure, the exposed person must be evaluated isoniazid and rifapentine given once weekly for three
for TB again and either TB treatment or TPT should months (3HP), daily rifampicin and isoniazid for
offered (e.g., repeat TB test and treat approach after three months (3RH), daily isoniazid for six months
each significant TB exposure). TPT is only effective (6H) or daily isoniazid for 12 months (12H). As a
while it is being given, so previous TPT does not rule, shorter treatment options should be offered
protect against a new TB exposure. where feasible and available. If 3HP is not available
(or contra-indicated), 3RH or 6H should be offered
All pregnant women with significant TB exposure for people who tested negative for HIV, and 12H for
(irrespective of age or HIV status) should be offered PLHIV (6H for children with HIV) and 3RH for children
TPT once TB disease has been excluded through <25 kg. 3HP is not yet available in children < 25 kg in
testing. TPT should therefore not be deferred to South Africa, 3RH should therefore be used, unless
the post-partum period. TB disease should be ruled contra-indicated. Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs)
out repeatedly during pregnancy, through initial for 3RH that are dispersible, scored and child-friendly,
evaluation as described above, and by using symptom are routinely available in the country.
screening during subsequent antenatal visits. Further
evaluation should be based on symptoms, the clinical Options for TPT regimens will be revised immediately
picture and any new information on TB exposure. once new evidence regarding safety, efficacy,
appropriate dosing and the required patient-friendly
People living with HIV (PLHIV): All adults, adoles- formulations become available. The TPT regimen
cents and children including infants living with HIV chosen will depend on the patient’s weight (in the
(irrespective of a known significant TB exposure) case of children); HIV status; unique individual,
should receive a course of TPT once TB disease household or family considerations; assessment of
has been excluded through testing. People newly potential drug interactions with other medications
diagnosed with HIV should always be tested for (including ART); availability of TPT formulations
TB prior to initiating antiretroviral treatment (ART). and the current evidence. A child-friendly fixed-dose
PLHIV who are already on ART, but who have not dispersible formulation of rifampicin and isoniazid
taken TPT before, should also be tested for TB. TPT (3RH) is already widely available, while a child-
should then be offered if no evidence of TB disease friendly rifapentine (P) formulation is not available
is found in PLHIV. Initiating ART should be prioritised yet. Therefore, 3RH is the preferred regimen for HIV-
and TPT should be started within the next two weeks. negative children <25 kg, who are not yet eligible for
If PLHIV interrupted their ART, ART counselling the 3HP regimen.
should be undertaken and ART re-initiated.
Children ≥25kg, adolescents and adults:
Other high-risk groups:
Older children weighing ≥25kg (typically eight
Inmates in correctional facilities remain a priority years and older) can be offered 3HP if the regimen
group for treatment of TB infection because the is available since they can receive adult doses of
confined indoor spaces they share with other people TB medications. These include children living with
often practically mean they that meet the criteria of HIV, if they are on a dolutegravir-based regimen
‘significant TB exposure’. with a suppressed viral load (VL <1000 in the last
six months). Accordingly, the guidelines have been
Healthcare workers have a very high risk of TB and stratified into two weight groups: children under 25kg,
should be considered for treatment of TB infection and everybody else above or equal to 25kg, including
within TB and HIV occupational health services. At older children, adolescents and adults. If 3HP is not
the minimum, setting-appropriate annual or bi-annual available, 3RH (in HIV-negative individuals) should
testing is recommended and additional evaluation, be used as the priority regimen. 6H also remains
based on clinical indications (e.g. symptoms, new TB an option for people who are not living with HIV, if
exposure) should be undertaken. preferred. 12H should be offered to all PLHIV who
6
are starting a dolutegravir-containing regimen (6H groups (e.g. in HIV-negative contacts older than five
in children with HIV). For individuals already virally years).
suppressed or who are not starting a dolutegravir-
containing regimen, 3HP is preferred. After TPT initiation, clinical follow-up is important
to monitor for safety, support adherence, checking
It should be noted that shorter TPT regimens in the weight and adjusting the dose as needed, and
general, in all people, usually have better completion to re-evaluate for TB disease. Monthly monitoring
rates, are safer and are better tolerated than longer for adherence and adverse effects of TPT is
regimens, in adults, children, adolescents, pregnant recommended. Patients should be carefully assessed
women and PLWH. for adverse effects, using standard reporting tools
as per the National Pharmacovigilance Centre (Tel:
Children <25kg: (012) 501 0311 and e-mail: [email protected]).
3RH is the preferred regimen for children under 25kg After completing a course of TPT, individuals should
not living with HIV. 6H is preferred (above 3RH) for be informed that subsequent TPT is required if
children under 25kg living with HIV and in infants/ another significant TB exposure occurs and that they
children born to pregnant women living with HIV, should access care for TB evaluation.
due to the risk of drug-drug interactions with ART
and the potential for decreasing the effectiveness of Children should be weighed at every visit and dosages
prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). adjusted based on actual weight to prevent under-
Once child-friendly rifapentine (P) formulations or overdosing. Patients and children’s caregivers
become available and the appropriate dose and should be counselled regarding side effects of TB
safety of 3HP is known in young children, 3HP may medications. They must be actively encouraged
in future become an available option for children < to present for evaluation should they develop new
25 kg. symptoms, such as fever, night sweats or cough, that
could indicate TB disease or immune reconstitution
Where possible, when considering a TPT regimen, inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), or if weight loss (or
preference should be given to individuals in one failure to gain weight, in children) occurs.
household or group receiving the same type of
regimen. This should be done to lessen the burden and Monitoring and evaluation
complexity of TPT on the individuals and the family/
group; reduce the chances of being stigmatised; and It is important that programmatic assessments should
facilitate support, monitoring and evaluation of TPT be conducted to determine whether TPT delivery
at the programme level. targets are being met, using existing data collection
tools. These include available electronic or other
While the same test and treat approach as that for registers, and cascade analysis. Such assessments
drug-susceptible TB (DS-TB) should be applied for should establish indicators and outcomes. Refer to
people exposed to drug-resistant TB (DR-TB), the Section 12 for more details.
management of DR-TB contacts must consider all
available M. tuberculosis resistance data. Additional
drug susceptibility testing should be attempted
for known sources/index patients. Please refer to
the latest National Drug-resistant TB Treatment
Guidelines for the management of DR-TB exposed
individuals.
Support for people on TPT

Individuals offered TPT require appropriate education
and counselling prior to TPT initiation, with continued
support during their TPT journey. Individuals should
be educated about the potential options for TPT
and about TB testing strategies. A family-centred,
household-based approach may support adherence
and improve TPT acceptability. Community health
workers (CHWs) can and should play a key role in
providing home-based person-centred treatment
support, as they already do for active TB treatment
and for ART. All care providers need to be trained
on the updated guidelines, with a special emphasis
on scaling up access among previously neglected
7
1. INTRODUCTION AND RATIONALE
1.1 Background 1.2 TB Preventive Treatment (TPT)

South Africa, with 13 other countries, carries the TPT is an effective and safe intervention to reduce the
major triple burden of drug-susceptible TB (DS-TB), risk of developing TB disease for all age groups with
multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and TB co-infected TB exposure. TPT is also an effective intervention to
with HIV (TB/HIV), and is among the top 30 high reduce the risk of developing TB disease amongst
TB burden countries identified by the World Health PLHIV14 and those with silicosis15, regardless of
Organization (WHO). The WHO estimated that, documented TB exposure.
in 2019 there were 360 000 new people with TB
disease in South Africa, of whom 58 per cent were The overall guiding principle is therefore that: TPT
living with HIV2. TB is the leading cause of death in should be offered to all people (regardless of age
South Africa3. and HIV status) after significant TB exposure and
those who are immunocompromised (regardless
The COVID-19 pandemic has put the gains made of known exposure), after TB disease has been
for TB at risk. Not only does SARS-CoV-2 pose an ruled out, i.e., a TB test and treat approach.
increased risk to people with TB, but it has severely Figure 1 describes the overall principle of eligibility
disrupted services. An estimated 1.4 million fewer for TPT.
people received care for TB last year – 21 per cent
less than in 2019. The Director-General of the WHO Even those who previously completed TB treatment
announced in June 2021 at the WHO high-level event may experience multiple significant exposures or
on a global drive to scale up TB prevention that the acquire/develop immunocompromising conditions
disruption of TB services could cause an additional over their life course. TPT is indicated at each new TB
half a million deaths4. He reiterated the urgency exposure or each period of immunocompromise.
to preventive treatment for household contacts of
people with TB, including children, alongside efforts The TPT regimen chosen will depend on the weight
to find people with TB disease among people living (for children), the HIV status, the type of patient
with HIV. and their circumstances, household or family
considerations, other medications including ART,
Significant exposure to TB in all age groups, people the availability of formulations and current evidence.
living with HIV (PLHIV), miners, inmates, pregnant Where possible, individuals in one household
women, immunocompromised individuals, those with or group should receive the same type of TPT
silicosis and healthcare workers are at especially regimen to lessen the burden and complexity of
high risk of developing TB disease – with reported TPT on the individuals and family/group, reduce the
rates of infection ranging from 26 per cent up to 89 chances of being stigmatised and facilitate support,
per cent. 5-11 monitoring and evaluation.
Prevention of TB disease is enshrined in South In South Africa, the current TPT options include:
Africa’s National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs
(Sexually Transmitted Infections) 2017-202212. It is • 3HP: three months of isoniazid and
a critical component of the WHO End TB Strategy, rifapentine given once weekly
which together with the United Nations (UN)
• 3RH: three months of daily rifampicin and
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), commits to
isoniazid
end the global TB epidemic by 2030 or sooner13. This
commitment was endorsed at the first UN High Level • 6H: six months of daily isoniazid
Meeting (HLM) on TB in New York, also attended by
• 12H: 12 months of daily isoniazid
representatives and the President of South Africa
in September 2018. The meeting set a target of
The 3HP regimen is as safe and effective, achieves
30 million people (including PLHIV and household
significantly higher treatment completion rates and
contacts) to be provided with TPT between 2018
has a significantly lower risk of hepatotoxicity than
and 2022. From estimates computed by the Stop TB
6H16, 17. It is therefore the preferred option if there are
Partnership, South Africa’s contribution to this global
no contra-indications. The isoniazid-only regimens
target is 2 572 100 people.
(6H and 12H) also have very low rates of adverse
events18 and do not lead to isoniazid resistance19.
9
In asymptomatic children, sputum testing or CXR is if 3HP is not suitable, use either 6H (children) or 12H
NOT a requirement to start TPT. Tests of TB infection (adults).
(tuberculin skin test/TST or IGRA) are not required to
initiate TPT. Options for TPT regimens will be revised as new
evidence regarding safety, efficacy, appropriate
Once the dolutegravir levels from trials like the dosing and patient friendly formulations become
DOLPHIN-2, DOLPHIN-kids and Tuberculosis Trials available in South Africa. Table 1 summarises the
Consortium (TBTC) Study 35 trials are known and current treatment options and their duration. Where
a child-friendly rifapentine formulation is available, possible, shorter TPT regimens should be
3HP will likely be the preferred option in all PLHIV, prioritised.
regardless of age and weight. In general, in PLHIV,
Figure 1. General algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment using the test and treat approach
1st evaluation of all adults,

adolescents & children All household and 1st evaluation of other
living with HIV other close TB contacts high risk groups
Evaluation for TB disease

• Symptom screen (including history of previous TB)
• Clinical examination, including weight
• Sputum testing (GeneXpert) if able produce sputum (or
other relevant sample)
• Chest radiograph (CXR), if available (the lack of CXR
should not be a barrier to offering TPT)
• Offer counselling and testing for HIV if HIV status is
unknown and link to care
No TB disease TB disease
Offer TB Start
preventive appropriate
treatment TB treatment
Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide adherence support,

weight check, dose adjust as needed, conduct safety
monitoring and register and notify
1.3 Tests of TB infection: Tuberculin Skin in these algorithms and any lack of availability should
Tests (TST) and Interferon-Gamma not impact whether somebody is offered TPT or not.
Release Assays (IGRA) Tests of TB infection may be used in individual care
settings at clinician discretion.
It is important to recognise the difference between
testing for TB infection (e.g., tuberculin skin test; TPT should be offered to all people after significant
TST, interferon-gamma release assay; IGRA) and exposure to an adult or adolescent with active
testing for TB disease (Xpert/culture, chest x-ray, pulmonary TB disease (TB contacts) or if the
Urine LF-LAM). Tests for TB infection are useful individual is immunocompromised (regardless of
to detect TB infection but are not a requirement to known M.tb exposure). In the past, the lack of TST
starting TPT. A positive test of infection means that or IGRA availability was a barrier to TPT access – this
the person is (or was previously) infected with M.tb, requirement has now been replaced with testing for
but does not indicate (or exclude) TB disease. Also, TB disease, before disease can be ruled out and TPT
a negative test of infection does not mean that the started. Xpert should be available at all healthcare
person is not actually infected with M.tb or is not at facilities as a minimum with or without urine LF-LAM
risk for developing TB disease in the near future. and chest x-rays.
Therefore, tests for TB infection are no longer listed
10
Table 1. Summary of TPT regimen options by patient type
PATIENT
WHAT TO DO REGIMEN
CATEGORY
PLHIV: Test for TB regardless of ART status and give TPT once TB disease
is excluded. If newly diagnosed with HIV, start ART immediately and TPT
Adults and adolescents including children ≥25kg
within the next two weeks.

HIV-positive
Post TB treatment: Offer TPT to all PLHIV ≥25 kg after successfully

3HP* or 12H
completing treatment for TB disease, after active TB disease has again been
excluded.
Previously treated with TPT: If re-exposed to any close contact with TB,
retest for TB and give TPT once TB disease has been excluded.
Evaluate all HIV-positive pregnant women regardless of CD4 count and
12H
give TPT once TB disease has been excluded.
Contacts: Evaluate all HIV-negative adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg
in close contact with people diagnosed with TB and start TPT once TB
disease has been excluded.
Evaluate all HIV-negative at-risk groups (on anti-TNF treatment, on dialysis,
HIV-negative
3HP, 3RH or
diabetes, preparing for organ or haematological transplant, or with silicosis).
6H
Once TB disease is excluded, start TPT.
Evaluate HIV-negative adults and adolescents who previously received
TPT, if re-exposed to a close contact with TB and start TPT once active TB
has been excluded.
Evaluate all TB exposed HIV-negative pregnant women and give TPT once
3RH or 6H
TB disease has been excluded.
Children living with HIV (CLHIV): Evaluate all children older than 14 weeks of
HIV -positive
age living with HIV for TB and start TPT once active TB has been excluded.
Infants and children <25kg
ART should be started immediately if newly diagnosed with HIV. TPT should
be started within two weeks of ART initiation. 6H**
Contacts: Evaluate all TB-exposed CLHIV and start TPT after TB disease
has been excluded, regardless of previous treatment or TPT.
Contacts: Evaluate HIV-negative children in close contact with a TB patient
HIV-negative
and start TPT after active TB disease has been excluded.

Test other HIV-negative at-risk children (weakened immune system 3RH
e.g., cancer, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, transplant patients on
immunosuppressive drugs, receiving dialysis, or inherited immunodeficiencies)
for TB and start TPT once TB disease has been excluded
* For adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg initiating a dolutegravir-containing ART regimen, 12H is
preferred. For PLHIV who are virally suppressed (VL<50 copies/mL) on a dolutegravir-containing regimen,
3HP is preferred.,
** In children <25kg initiating a dolutegravir-containing ART regimen, 6H is preferred.
Once the dolutegravir levels from the DOLPHIN-2, DOLPHIN-kids and TBTC Study 35 trials are available,
3HP will likely be the preferred option in all PLHIV. If 3HP is not available, use either 6H (children<25kg) or
12H (adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg).
11
2. PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES
These guidelines provide evidence-based practices screening20 and treatment of latent TB infection21 and
for TPT to reduce the risk of progressing to TB in are adapted to South Africa’s TB epidemiology, local
people who experience significant exposures or evidence, the availability of regimens, formulations,
are immunocompromised, thus reducing the overall resources, health infrastructure and other national
burden of TB in South Africa. These guidelines determinants.
are informed by the latest WHO guidance for TB
3. ORGANISATION OF THE GUIDELINES
The guidelines are organised into sections by TPT The overall guiding principle is a test and treat
patient type (Sections 4 to 9). Within each section, approach: TPT must be offered to all people
there are considerations listed for (a) eligibility criteria (regardless of age and HIV status) who
that define the patient type in that section, and (b) experience significant TB exposure or who are
management of TPT patients described in that immunocompromised, after TB disease has
section including: (i) the TPT test and treat algorithm, been excluded – see Figure 1 for the overarching
(ii) regimen options, and (iii) dosing instructions per principles and groups of individuals requiring TPT.
regimen.
Further, where feasible, a ‘family-centred’ or
There are three groups of potential TPT patients: ‘household-centred’ approach to integrated
TB treatment and TPT should be followed to
1) those (regardless of age and HIV status) simplify adherence support, reduce the risk of
who experience a significant exposure to TB stigmatisation and minimise the therapeutic burden
(contacts), on families. As significant TB exposure occurs in
places like households, some residents will be on TB
2) those who are living with HIV and
treatment (for active disease) and the others on TPT
3) other high-risk groups (people with silicosis, concurrently.
on dialysis, on anti-TNF treatment, on dialysis,
preparing for organ or haematological transplant, The management of contacts of DR-TB is addressed
or other risk groups in national guidelines). in the latest South African National DR-TB Guidelines.
There is some overlap between sections and

readers are encouraged to follow the text directing
them to other sections as appropriate.
12
4. ADULT, ADOLESCENT AND OLDER CHILD CONTACTS
This group of potential TPT patients were previously for thorough contact investigations to establish who
called “household contacts”. Significant TB exposure has had significant exposure to this index patient.
can however occur both within and outside the Each person with significant exposure should be
household. Therefore, the term “household contact” documented, evaluated for TB disease and offered
is confusing and should no longer be used. Instead, either TPT or TB treatment – i.e., the TB test and
these guidelines use the term “contacts” for “those treat approach.
with significant TB exposure”, defined as:
If contacts decline TPT (despite counselling), they
Significant exposure: (Documented) exposure to a should be counselled further regarding TB symptoms
person (adult or adolescent) with pulmonary TB who and should be offered TPT again at the next
shared the same enclosed space for one or more opportunity. If they develop symptoms suggestive of
nights or for frequent or extended daytime periods TB, they should be evaluated for TB disease again,
during the three months before the index patient and be offered TB treatment (if diseased) or offered
started TB treatment. TPT once more (if TB disease has been excluded).
4.1 TPT should be offered to: 4.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst adult,
adolescent, and older child contacts
All adult, adolescent, and child contacts. TPT should
be offered regardless of HIV status and age. 3HP can
be used for children ≥25kg, adolescents and adults. Evaluation for TB disease includes symptom
screening, physical examination and diagnostic
Prior completion of either TB treatment or TPT does testing irrespective of reported symptoms. TB
not exclude a new course of TPT for a new exposure. can either be bacteriologically confirmed or clinically
diagnosed. Amongst adults, adolescents, and older
4.2 TPT should be deferred or not offered children (≥25kg), at least symptom screening and a
if the individual: sputum test are required prior to initiating TPT.
• is diagnosed with TB disease Please refer to Figure 2 for the overall approach to
the management of adults, adolescents and older
• has active liver disease (acute or chronic)
children with TB exposure.
• has symptoms and signs of severe
peripheral neuropathy (could consider Symptom screening for TB disease amongst
rifampicin only [4R] regimen) adults, adolescents, and older children include
one or more of the following:
• has a history of adverse reactions to any of
the drugs (medications) used for TPT • current cough
• drinks excessive alcohol, and is unwilling or • weight loss
unable to scale down use:
• fever
• for men: more than five standard drinks on
any day or 15 drinks per week • night sweats
• for women: more than four standard drinks • haemoptysis

on any day or eight drinks per week
Diagnostic tests for TB disease amongst adults,
For individuals with abnormal baseline liver function adolescents, and older children, regardless of the
test results, sound clinical judgement is required to presence of symptoms:
ensure that the benefit of TB preventive treatment
• a sputum sample for testing using Xpert
outweighs the risks, and they should be tested
routinely at subsequent visits. • if no sputum sample can be collected, a
chest radiograph should be obtained to rule
4.3 Management of TPT in adult, out TB disease
adolescent, and older child (weighing • tests of TB infection (TST/IGRA) are not a
more than25 kilograms) contacts requirement to initiate TPT
All adult, adolescent and child contacts require • most children ≥25kg can spontaneously
TPT once TB disease has been excluded through expectorate sputum. If children cannot
evaluation and testing. When an adult or adolescent expectorate sputum and are well (no
is diagnosed with pulmonary TB disease it is essential signs or symptoms), sputum testing is not
13
required. CXR should be used as available to adults, adolescents and older children who are
to rule out TB. If a child is well and CXR is NOT living with HIV.
not available, TPT should still be initiated,
and the child followed If 3HP is not available for HIV-negative children ≥25kg,
adolescents and adults, use 3RH. Also consider 3RH
• in a child with suggestive signs or
use as an alternative to 6H, especially to harmonise
symptoms, a CXR should be obtained
treatments in a household or family setting.
where possible and sputum sampling
attempted
For adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg living
with HIV and initiating dolutegravir-containing ART,
4.3.2 TPT regimens for adult, adolescent, and
12H is preferred.
older child (≥25kg) contacts
There are currently four potential regimens for this

group: 3HP, 3RH, 6H or 12H. The short course 3HP
regimen should be prioritised if possible. This applies
4.3.2.1 Recommended weekly dosages for the 3HP regimen for adult, adolescent, and child ≥25kg
contacts not living with HIV
Rifapentine Isoniazid
Body weight (kg) Duration
150mg tablets (weekly) 300mg tablets (weekly)
25-29.9 4 2 12 weeks (3 months)
30 – 49.9 6 3 12 weeks (3 months)
>50 6 3 12 weeks (3 months)
Note: If 3HP is not available, 3RH should be used in adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg without
HIV. Alternatively, 6H can be used.
4.3.2.2 Recommended daily dosages for the 3RH regimen in adult, adolescent and child ≥25kg
contacts who are not living with HIV
Pre-treatment body weight RH (150,75) RH (300,150)

25-37 kg 2 tabs
38-54 kg 3 tabs
55-70 kg 2 tabs
>70kg 2 tabs
4.3.2.3 Recommended daily dosages for the 12H regimen in adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg
living with HIV
Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

Isoniazid (H) 5mg/kg 300mg* 12 months Daily
* If 300mg tablets are not available, use 100mg x 3
4.3.2.4. Recommended daily dosages for the 12 months once-daily Isoniazid 12H regimen (only
adults living with HIV)
Drug Dosage Number of tablets (daily) Duration

300mg tablet 1 12 months
Isoniazid(H)
Or 100mg tablet 3 12 months
All people receiving TPT should be offered pyridoxine (vitamin B6) for the duration of their TPT: 25mg/
day if five years or older, 12.5mg/day if younger than five years of age. Lack of pyridoxine supply should
not be a reason to withhold or postpone TPT.
14
Figure 2. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for adult, adolescent and older child
(≥25kg) TB contacts
All adult and adolescent living with HIV
Evaluate for TB
• Symptom screen: current cough of any duration, fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats,
haemoptysis, history of previous TB treatment, adherence to ART
• Clinical examination
• Sputum testing (GenXpert) if can produce sputum. Obtain other specimens as clinically relevant
• Urine LAM if eligible and available
• Chest X-ray if available on-site (the lack of CXR should not be a barrier to initiating TPT)
Xpert/u-LAM NEGATIVE and/or Xpert/u-LAM POSITIVE

NO evidence suggestive of TB on CXR or CXR suggestive of TB
No signs or TB signs or
symptoms of TB symptoms present
Further Investigate for TB and

No TB disease other diseases as per national TB disease
management guidelines
Offer TB Start appropriate TB treatment

preventive as per national guidelines, register
treatment and notify patient
Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide

adherence support, weight check, do dose adjustment as
needed, conduct safety monitoring and register and notify
• Tests of TB infection (tuberculin skin test/TST or IGRA) not required to initiate TPT in adult or
adolescent TB contacts
• For management of DR-TB exposure, refer to the latest National DR-TB Guidelines
15
5. CHILD CONTACTS: CHILDREN WEIGHING LESS THAN 25

KILOGRAMS AND INFANTS
Significant exposure is known (documented) 5.3.1 Evaluation of child contacts

exposure to a person (adult or adolescent) with
pulmonary TB who shared the same enclosed space Evaluation for TB disease includes symptom
for one or more nights (e.g. at home or similar) or screening, clinical examination and diagnostic
for frequent or extended daytime periods (e.g. at a testing. These are similar for HIV-negative children
school, crèche or similar) during the three months and in children living with HIV (see Figure 3).
before the index patient started TB treatment.
TB testing strategies are different in older children and
5.1 TPT should be offered to younger children, who typically cannot spontaneously
expectorate sputum. Sputum testing or CXR in well
All children <25 kg with significant TB exposure (child young children (i.e. without symptoms or signs
contacts – for older contacts, refer to Section 4). suggestive of TB) is therefore not a requirement for the
initiation of TPT. Sputum testing (and Xpert) should
TPT should be offered regardless of the child’s HIV be attempted in older children, who can expectorate
status and age. The practical 25kg cut-off is used spontaneously. Sputum should also be collected in
since heavier children can be offered 3HP if available. a young child if they are able to expectorate sputum
There is not enough evidence yet on dosing or (such children are usually symptomatic).
safety or the appropriate formulations available to
recommend 3HP in children <25kg. If parents or guardians of child contacts decline TPT
(despite counselling) then they should be counselled
The prior completion of either TB treatment or TPT further regarding potential TB symptoms and should
does not exclude a new course of TPT in a child. be offered TPT again at the next opportunity. If the
child develops symptoms suggestive of TB, the child
5.2 TPT should be deferred or not offered should be evaluated for TB disease and be offered
if the child: TB treatment (if diseased) or be offered TPT again if
TB disease has been excluded.
• is diagnosed with TB disease
5.3.1.1 Symptom screening for TB disease
amongst children – regardless of HIV
• has symptoms and signs of severe status:
peripheral neuropathy (a clinician may
consider a rifampicin only regimen on and • current cough
individual basis) • poor weight gain or failure to thrive or
• has a history of adverse reactions to any documented weight loss
medication used for TPT • fever or night sweats
5.3 Management of TPT in children • lethargy/fatigue (decreased playfulness)

weighing less than 25 kilograms • visible neck mass or swelling
All children (HIV-negative and HIV-positive) with Note that symptoms may be acute in young
significant exposure to TB require TPT once TB children, in severely malnourished children
disease has been excluded through clinical evaluation and in those living with HIV.
and testing.
5.3.1.2 Diagnostic tests for TB disease amongst
When an adult or adolescent patient is diagnosed children – regardless of HIV status:
with pulmonary TB disease it is essential to conduct
a thorough contact investigation to establish who had • sputum testing (and Xpert) should be
significant exposure to this index patient. Each child attempted in older children, who can
with TB exposure is evaluated for TB disease and expectorate spontaneously and in any
offered either treatment or TPT (if disease excluded), other children who can expectorate
i.e., the TB test and treat approach. spontaneously. If a young child can
expectorate sputum, a sample should also
be attempted
16
• CXR is a valuable tool to rule out TB • tests of TB infection (TST/IGRA) are not
disease in children. The absence of a a requirement to initiate TPT. A positive
CXR should however not pose a barrier test of infection in a well child however
to starting TPT in well children. In a well indicates a higher risk of future TB disease
child with no TB signs or symptoms, a CXR progression. Tests of infection may be used
is therefore not required to initiate TPT. at clinician discretion
Clinical follow-up remains important
• in any child with signs or symptoms
suggestive of TB, either at initial screening
or at follow-up, a CXR should be obtained
if available
Figure 3. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for infant and child contacts, children
living with HIV and other high-risk groups
All infants and children with 1st evaluation of all children

TB exposure living with HIV and other high
risk groups
Evaluate for TB disease

• Symptom screen: current cough, poor weight gain/failure to thrive, fever, lethargy or
decreased playfulness, visible neck mass, previois TB treatment history, HIV status.
Symptoms may be acute especially in young or HIV+ children
• Clinical examination including current weight and trends in growth, BCG vaccination
status
No signs or symptoms Signs or symptoms

suggestive of TB suggestive of TB present
CXR not CXR Test for TB

available available
• Chest radiograph (CXR)*
• GenXpert on any relevant specimen
including stool
CXR CXR • Culture on respiratory or appropriate
Normal Abnormal specimen
• Urine-LAM if living with HIV
• If no sample obtained, continue evaluation.
No evidence of TB
disease and symptoms
resolved
No evidence of TB
disease and TB disease
persistent symptoms
No TB disease
Review or refer to next Start TB treatment,

level of care for register and
Offer TB further investigation notify patient
preventive
treatment
Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB,

adherence support, weight check, dose adjustment,
safety monitoring & registration
17
• If a CXR has already been done recently • in children living with HIV and on DTG
in a child who presented with no signs or (dolutegravir) containing ART, the
symptoms, do not repeat the CXR preferred regimen is 6H to avoid drug-drug
interactions with ART
• Culture should NOT be attempted from
stool given high contamination rates • in infants born to HIV-positive women
(HIV-exposed but HIV-negative infants) on
• Tests of TB infection (tuberculin skin test/
nevirapine, 6H is the priority regimen as
TST or IGRA) are not required to initiate
rifampicin lowers nevirapine levels below
TPT in children who are TB contacts
efficacy
• For the management of DR-TB exposure,
refer to the latest National DR-TB All children and breastfeeding infants require
Guidelines pyridoxine (vitamin B6) for the duration of their TPT
as follows: Children younger than five years 12.5mg
5.3.2 TPT regimens for children weighing less and children five years or older 25mg, once daily.
than 25 kilograms Lack of pyridoxine access should not be a barrier to
receiving TPT.
There are three potential regimens for children: 3RH,
3HP, and 6H. The choice depends on the child’s For HIV-positive infants who have just had the
weight, HIV status or HIV exposure (maternal HIV) Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and are not
status: TB-exposed, TPT should be deferred for 14 weeks
• in HIV-negative children <25kg, the priority as Isoniazid (INH) impairs the effect of live BCG
regimen is 3RH (M.bovis BCG) vaccine.
5.3.2.1 Recommended daily dosages for 3RH in HIV-negative children <25kg
RH (Daily) fixed dose combinations

Child’s Weight (kg) Duration
75/50 If dispersed in water
2-2.9 ½ tablet 5ml
3-3.9 ¾ tablet 7.5ml
4-5.9 1 tablet 10ml
6-7.9 1 ½ tablet 15ml 3 months
8-11.9 2 tablets 20ml
≥25 Use adult formulations and doses
5.3.2.2 Recommended daily dosages for the 6H regimen amongst children living with HIV
Weight band (kg) Daily INH 100mg tablet Duration

2 – 3.4 ¼ tablet
3.5 – 4.9 ½ tablet
5 – 7.4 ¾ tablet
7.5 – 9.9 1 tablet 6 months
10 – 14.9 1 ½ tablet
15 – 19.9 2 tablets
20 -24.9 3 tablets (or one 300mg tablet)
≥25 Use adult formulations (maximum dose 300 mg per day)
18
5.4 Management of TPT in children living In newborns, TB disease should be excluded by

with HIV (irrespective of TB exposure) thorough clinical evaluation of the baby, including
respiratory and abdominal examination; respiratory
All children living with HIV (irrespective of significant sampling (gastric aspirates) for Xpert and
TB exposure), require a course of TPT once TB mycobacterial culture and CXR should be done. An
disease has been excluded through evaluation and abdominal ultrasound is needed in case of abnormal
testing. clinical findings (distension or hepatomegaly).
For any new TB exposure, TB evaluation is again The newborn should be managed according to the
required along with offering TPT or TB treatment. algorithm outlined in Figure 4. Referral for further
evaluation should be done if disease is suspected,
Evaluation for TB disease is identical to that described TPT is not well tolerated or new symptoms develop.
under HIV-negative children (Figure 3). Refer to There should be a low threshold for rapidly referring
Section 7 for more information. an unwell TB-exposed neonate or infant for further
evaluation given the high risk of TB and non-specific
5.5 Management of TPT in TB-exposed clinical presentation of TB in infants.
newborns (babies born to mothers
diagnosed with pre-natal or peri- BCG vaccination should be deferred in newborns
partum TB or with other significant TB starting TPT to after TPT completion since TB drugs
exposure) impair the effect of live BCG (M.bovis BCG) vaccine.
It is important that BCG vaccination is given after
Infants have a high risk of developing severe and completion of TPT.
disseminated TB if exposed to TB and if not given
TPT. Babies born to mothers diagnosed with TB
in the last two months of pregnancy or at/after birth,
or who are still infectious (culture positive), or who
are not clinically responding to TB treatment at the
time the baby is born, are classified as TB exposed.
Infants may also be exposed to another person with
TB inside or outside the household.
19
Figure 4. Algorithm for TB preventive treatment for TB-exposed newborns
Undertake appropriate clinical

and laboratory investigation Assess newborn for symptoms/signs of TB including
Yes LBW/pre-maturity, HIV status and full clinical examination
OR
Referral t hospital Systems evaluated should include lung, abdomen
OR (including live, spleen) and CNS.
Telephonic consultation with expert
No
Yes Mother (or other close contact) on TB treatment >=

BCG* 2 months AND responding to therapy AND
considered not infectious (ie.) converted sputum)
No
Contact drug Contact drug

sensitive/unknown resistant
HIV-positive/exposed baby on an
NNRTI/PI/iNSTI or on any other drug
with rifampicin interaction?
Yes No
6H 3RH
Support adherence, evaluate safety, check weight and adjust

doses, evaluate for TB symptoms, register and notify.
• These infants must be investigated for TB disease – if TB disease is definitely excluded, infants
should also return to algorithm for TPT
• It is critical that BCG should be given immediately after the completion of TB preventive treatment or
TB treatment. BCG is a live attenuated M.bovis vaccine and is killed by TB medications. If the child
is also living with HIV, discuss with HIV clinician to decide when BCG should be given.
• ART=antiretroviral treatment; BCG=Bacillus Calmette-Guérin; CNS=central nervous system;
DST=drug susceptibility testing; INH=isoniazid; RIF=rifampicin; Rx=treatment; TPT=tuberculosis
preventive treatment; NNRTI=Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors; PI=Protease
Inhibitor; iNSTI=Integrase strand transfer inhibitors.
20
6. TPT IN PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN WITH

TB EXPOSURE OR LIVING WITH HIV
6.1 TPT should be offered to all pregnant 6.3 Management of TPT amongst HIV-
and breastfeeding women (regardless negative and HIV-positive pregnant
of their HIV status) with significant TB and breastfeeding women with TB
exposure exposure
All pregnant and breastfeeding women with significant When an adult or adolescent patient is diagnosed
exposure to TB require TPT once TB disease has with pulmonary TB disease, thorough contact
been excluded through careful evaluation, including investigation is essential to establish who may have
TB testing for all, regardless of symptoms. had a significant exposure to this index patient.
TPT should not be deferred in a pregnant or For subsequent TB exposures, TB evaluation is again
breastfeeding woman with significant TB exposure, required followed by either TPT or TB treatment, as
defined as sharing the same enclosed space with appropriate, i.e., TB test and treat approach (see also
a person (adult or adolescent) known to have had Section 4).
pulmonary TB during the three months before this
index patient starting his/her TB treatment. Sharing 6.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst
enclosed space includes one or more nights (e.g., a pregnant and breastfeeding women
home, correctional facility or similar) or for frequent
and extended periods. The prior completion of Evaluation for TB disease in pregnant women includes
either TB treatment or TPT does not exclude a new symptom screening, physical examination, and
course of TPT, if there has been a new source of TB diagnostic testing. TB can either be bacteriologically
exposure. confirmed or clinically diagnosed. A minimum of
symptom screening and a sputum test (regardless
TPT should be offered to pregnant women with of the presence of symptoms) are required prior to
significant TB exposure, regardless of HIV status. initiating either TPT in a pregnant or breastfeeding
Conversely, TPT should also be offered to all woman.
pregnant or breastfeeding women living with HIV,
regardless of TB exposure. Evaluation for TB disease is required at the first
antenatal care (ANC) booking or visit and each
6.2 TPT should be deferred or not offered subsequent ANC and postpartum follow-up visit.
Sputum should always be collected from those who
if the pregnant woman:
are symptomatic during follow-up visits.
• has active liver disease (acute or chronic) amongst pregnant or breastfeeding
• has symptoms and signs of severe women include the presence of any one
peripheral neuropathy (could consider or more of the following:
rifampicin only regimen)
• current cough
• has a history of adverse reactions to any
• weight loss or poor weight gain
medications used for TPT
• fever
• makes excessive use of alcohol (and is
unwilling or unable to scale down), defined • night sweats
as four or more standard drinks on a day or
• haemoptysis
eight or more per week
For individuals with abnormal baseline liver function
pregnant or breastfeeding women:
test results, sound clinical judgement is required to
ensure that the benefit of TB preventive treatment • a sputum sample should be obtained and
outweighs the risks, and they should be tested tested using GeneXpert
routinely at subsequent visits.
• tests of TB infection (TST/IGRA) are not a
TPT should not be deferred to the postpartum requirement to initiating TPT
period in pregnant women living with HIV. • if CXR is needed (e.g., sputum not
obtained), precautions are required to
Breastfeeding is NOT a contraindication to TPT. protect the foetus from radiation exposure
21
Pregnant or breastfeeding women declining TPT 6.3.3 TPT treatment options for pregnant and
(despite counselling), should be followed up and breastfeeding women
screened for TB symptoms at every antenatal and
postpartum visit, and offered TPT again after TB For HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding women
disease was excluded. there are two regimen options: 3RH or 6H.
6.3.2 Considerations for TPT initiation in For HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women
pregnant and breastfeeding women living there is one option: 12H.
with HIV:
For ALL pregnant and breastfeeding women
• TPT should not be deferred in pregnant pyridoxine (vitamin B6) 25mg is added for the
and breastfeeding women living with HIV duration of TPT – irrespective of HIV status.
• newly pregnant women living with HIV and
already on TPT should continue TPT
6.3.3.1 Recommended daily dosages for the 6H regimen amongst HIV-negative pregnant and
breastfeeding women

Isoniazid (H)* 5mg/kg 300mg 6 months Daily
* If 300mg tablets are not available, use 100mg
6.3.3.2 Recommended daily dosages for the 3RH regimen amongst HIV-negative pregnant and
breastfeeding women: Please refer to Section 4.
6.3.3.3 Recommended daily dosages for the 12H regimen amongst HIV-positive pregnant and
breastfeeding women. All HIV-positive women initiated on DTG should receive 12H.


22
7. PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV (PLHIV): ADULTS,

ADOLESCENTS, AND CHILDREN IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE
All immunocompromised people have a significant 7.3 Management of TPT for PLHIV
risk for developing TB disease and require an initial
TPT course, regardless of significant exposure, If PLHIV (or their caregivers in the case of children)
once TB disease has been excluded. This includes decline TPT (despite counselling) then they should
people of all ages living with HIV (adults, pregnant be counselled further regarding TB symptoms and
and breastfeeding women, adolescents, and children should be offered TPT again at the next opportunity.
including infants older than 14 weeks of age). If they develop symptoms suggestive of TB, they
should be evaluated for TB disease and be offered
See Section 6 for pregnant women living with HIV and either TB treatment, or be offered TPT again if TB
Section 5 for children living with HIV. After any new disease has been excluded.
TB exposure, TB evaluation is again required along
with a decision to start either TPT or TB treatment, 7.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst PLHIV
i.e., the TB test and treat approach (see Section 4).
Evaluation for TB disease includes symptom
screening, physical examination, and diagnostic
7.1 Who TPT should be offered to testing (regardless of symptoms). TB can either be
TPT should be offered to all people on ART and bacteriologically confirmed or clinically diagnosed.
people newly diagnosed with HIV (adults, pregnant
and breastfeeding women, adolescents, and children Amongst PLHIV adults (including pregnant and
of all weights) should be evaluated for TB disease breastfeeding women), adolescents and older
and offered TPT, regardless of a TB exposure, once children, a Xpert sputum test is required irrespective
TB disease has been excluded. of symptoms prior to initiating either TB treatment or
TPT, i.e., the TB test and treat approach.
Prior completion of either TB treatment or TPT do
not exclude being offered TPT again if there is a new PLHIV already in care should be screened for TB
significant TB exposure. symptoms at each visit, with those symptomatic
being tested for TB disease again (Figure 5).
7.2 TPT should be deferred or not offered
PLHIV who complete TB treatment and have
if the individual living with HIV:
bacteriological proof of cure should be screened
• is diagnosed with TB disease for TB symptoms and assessed for TPT eligibility
if there is repeated exposure to TB or they have
• has active liver disease (acute or chronic) not taken TPT before. If bacteriological cure is not
• has symptoms and signs of severe demonstrated after treatment completion, reassess
peripheral neuropathy (could consider for TPT eligibility three months after completion of TB
rifampicin only regimen) treatment.
• has a history of adverse reactions to any of After completing a TPT course, PLHIV are eligible
the drugs used for TPT for TPT again after a significant TB exposure (see
• Uses alcohol excessively (and is unwilling Section 4).
or unable to scale down), defined as:
• for men: Five or more standard drinks on amongst PLHIV (adults, adolescents, and
any day or 15 or more per week children ≥25kg):
• for women: Four or more standard drinks
on any day or eight or more per week • current cough
• weight loss
For individuals with abnormal baseline liver function • fever
• night sweats
outweighs the risks, and they should be tested • haemoptysis
23
7.3.1.2 Symptom screening for TB disease • a urine sample can also be obtained from
amongst PLHIV (children <25kg): those who are eligible and tested using
LF-LAM
• current cough
• test of TB infection (TST/IGRA) are not a
• poor weight gain or failure to thrive or requirement to initiating TPT
documented weight loss
• fever or night sweats 7.3.1.4 Diagnostic tests for TB disease amongst
children weighing less than 25 kilograms
• lethargy/fatigue (decreased playfulness) living with HIV
• visible neck mass/swelling
Refer to Section 5.
7.3.2 TPT regimens for PLHIV (adults, pregnant
PLHIV (adults, adolescents, and children
and breastfeeding women, adolescents,
≥25kg):
and children 25 kilograms or more)
• a sputum sample should be obtained and
For adults, adolescents and children ≥25kg living with
tested using Xpert
HIV and initiating dolutegravir-containing ART, 12H is
• if no sputum sample can be obtained, then the preferred regimen. For those taking ART that are
a chest radiograph should be obtained to already virally suppressed (VL<50 copies/mL in the
rule out TB disease last six months) or those starting ART not containing
Dolutegravir, 3HP is preferred.
7.3.2.1 Recommended daily dosages for 12H in adults, pregnant and breastfeeding women,
adolescents and children weighing 25 kilograms or more living with HIV

7.3.2.2 Recommended weekly dosages for the 3HP regimen amongst adults, adolescents, and
children weighing 25 kilograms or more living with HIV not on Dolutegravir or with supressed
viral load.
150mg tablets (weekly) 300mg tablets (weekly)
25-29.9 4 2 12 weeks (3 months)
30 – 49.9 6 3 12 weeks (3 months)
>50 6 3 12 weeks (3 months)
7.3.3 TPT regimens for children weighing less than 25 kilograms living with HIV
In children living with HIV initiating a dolutegravir-containing ART regimen, 6H is the preferred regimen.
7.3.3.1 Recommended daily dosages for 6H regimen amongst children living with HIV weighing less
than 25 kilograms

For managing the TB-exposed infant, please refer to Section 5.
24
Figure 5. Algorithm for provision of TB preventive treatment for adults and adolescents living with HIV
All adult and adolescent living with HIV
Evaluate for TB
• Symptom screen: current cough of any duration, fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats,
haemoptysis, history of previous TB treatment, adherence to ART
• Clinical examination
• Sputum testing (GenXpert) if can produce sputum. Obtain other specimens as clinically relevant
• Urine LAM if eligible and available
• Chest X-ray if available on-site (the lack of CXR should not be a barrier to initiating TPT)
Xpert/u-LAM NEGATIVE and/or Xpert/u-LAM POSITIVE

NO evidence suggestive of TB on CXR or CXR suggestive of TB
No signs or TB signs or
symptoms of TB symptoms present
Further Investigate for TB and

No TB disease other diseases as per national TB disease
management guidelines
Offer TB Start appropriate TB treatment

preventive as per national guidelines, register
treatment and notify patient
Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide

adherence support, weight check, do dose adjustment as
needed, conduct safety monitoring and register and notify
• Tests of TB infection (tuberculin skin test/TST or IGRA) not required to initiate TPT in adults or
adolescents with known TB exposure
25
8. SILICOSIS
People with confirmed silicosis have a significant risk 8.3 Management of TPT for people with
for developing TB disease and require initial TPT silicosis
regardless of significant exposure.
If TPT is declined (despite counselling) re-counsel
After new TB exposure, TB evaluation is again regarding TB symptoms and offer TPT again at the
required along with a decision to offer TPT or TB next opportunity. For symptoms suggestive of TB, re-
treatment (see Section 4). evaluate for TB disease and offer either TB treatment
or TPT again, if TB disease has been excluded.
8.1 Who TPT should be offered to
8.3.1 Evaluation for TB disease amongst
TPT should be offered to all people with confirmed silicosis
silicosis regardless of whether they have a known
significant exposure (regardless of prior TB treatment Evaluation for TB disease includes symptom
or TPT unrelated to silicosis). screening, physical examination, and diagnostic
testing, regardless of symptoms. TB can either be
People with silicosis who have completed TB bacteriologically confirmed or clinically diagnosed.
treatment and have bacteriological proof of cure Amongst people with silicosis a minimum of symptom
should be screened for TB symptoms and assessed screening and a sputum test are required prior to
for TPT eligibility if they have not previously received initiating either TB treatment or TPT.
TPT or if they are re-exposed. If bacteriological cure
is not demonstrated after completion of treatment, People with silicosis will present with similar
reassess the patient for TPT eligibility three months symptoms and signs of TB. Therefore, it is imperative
after completion of TB treatment. that all adults presenting with TB symptoms should
always be asked about history of working in the
People with silicosis who have completed a TPT mines and silicosis.
regimen are eligible for subsequent TPT (again) if
they experience a significant exposure (see Section 8.3.1.1 Symptom screening for TB disease
4). amongst adults with silicosis:
• current cough
8.2 TPT should be deferred or not offered
if the individual: • weight loss
• fever
• night sweats
• haemoptysis
• has symptoms and signs of severe
peripheral neuropathy (could consider
8.3.1.2 Testing for latent tuberculosis infection
rifampicin only regimen)
(LTBI) amongst adults with silicosis
• has a history of adverse reactions to any of
the drugs used for TPT Where available, tuberculin skin test (TST) or
interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) may be
• uses alcohol excessively (and is unwilling useful to distinguish silicosis from TB disease.
or unable to scale down), defined as:
• for men: Five or more standard drinks on 8.3.2 TPT regimens for adults with silicosis
any day or 15 or more per week
There are currently three potential regimens for this
• for women: Four or more standard drinks group: 3HP, 3RH or 12H. In general, the short course
on any day or eight or more per week 3HP regimen should be prioritised where possible.
Patients should also receive pyridoxine (vitamin B6)
For individuals with abnormal baseline liver function 25mg for the duration of their TPT.
outweighs the risks, and they should be tested
26
8.3.2.1 Recommended weekly dosages for the 3HP regimen for adults with silicosis
150mg tablets (weekly) 300 mg tablets (weekly)
25-29.9 4 2 3 months
30 – 49.9 6 3 3 months
>50 6 3 3 months
8.3.2.2 Recommended daily dosages for 12H for adults with silicosis

8.3.2.3 Recommended daily dosages for 3RH for adults with silicosis – see Section 4.
9. OTHER HIGH-RISK GROUPS
Additional specific TPT guidelines need to be routine occupational TB screening programme.

developed for groups at increased risk of TB infection At the minimum, annual testing for active disease
and/or progression to TB disease, such as: is recommended and additional evaluation based
on clinical indications (e.g. symptoms, new TB
1) inmates in correctional facilities remain a priority exposure) should be undertaken
for TPT because the confined indoor spaces they
3) people who have previously had TB are at higher
share with other people often mean they meet
risk of getting TB again. TPT is therefore also
the criteria of ‘significant TB exposure’
indicated in those with previous TB after another
2) healthcare workers also have a high risk of significant exposure
TB and should be considered for TPT during a
10. PATIENT CATEGORISATION AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES
Patients treated for TB infection may be categorised either as new or previously treated. The treatment outcome
possibilities are completed, lost to follow-up, stopped or died as described in Table 2.
Table 2. Patient categories and treatment outcomes
Category definition
New Never had TPT or who took treatment for less than four weeks.
Previously treated Past TPT or another regimen for four or more weeks and either completed or
stopped for any reason (e.g. due to adverse events, developed TB, lost to follow-
up)
TB Preventive Treatment (TPT) outcomes
Treatment completed Individual who has taken treatment and completed preventive treatment within the
prescribed period.
Lost to follow-up An individual whose treatment was interrupted for four weeks or more (if on four
or more months regimen) OR two consecutive months (if on a six-month regimen)
OR three consecutive months (if on a 12-month regimen) during the treatment
period.
Treatment stopped An individual whose treatment was stopped during the treatment period, because
of serious adverse events or development of TB disease.
Died Death for any reason during the treatment
27
11. CLINICAL MONITORING OF PEOPLE ON TREATMENT
11.1 Education and counselling of eligible 11.2 Follow-up visits

individuals
Individuals should be monitored monthly (three or
Education and counselling at treatment initiation six months depending on the duration of treatment).
should cover the following: For individuals with co-morbidities, try to align
appointments with other scheduled chronic disease
• what is TB exposure and infection?
or ART visits to avoid multiple visits for care. At each
• who is eligible for TPT? visit the following must be done:
• benefits of TB preventive treatment • screen individuals for signs and symptoms
of TB. If symptomatic, investigate per
• risks of TB preventive treatment
National TB Management Guidelines,
• importance of adhering to treatment stop treatment. If asymptomatic, continue
treatment
• duration of treatment
• provide on-going counselling and education
• taking the medication - advice for the
of the individual
patients and caregivers:
• monitor adherence (including pill count and
• 3RH: Given on an empty stomach (before
missed appointments). If poor adherence
a meal)
or treatment interruption, ask about
• Isoniazid regimen only (6H or 12H): Give the possible reasons and counsel the
on an empty stomach (before a meal). individual. For children, counsel the parent/
Isoniazid is best absorbed on an empty guardian
stomach; there is an up to 50 per cent
• assess for need of social support and refer
reduction in peak concentration with a fatty
accordingly to social worker, community
meal
development officer, etc.
• 3HP: Give with a meal or directly after a
• assess individual for side effects of the
meal (Rifapentine is better absorbed with
medicines used for treatment, if any are
food)
present manage them
• medicines they will be taking, frequency
• people on the three-month treatment
and timing
regimen can be given three months’
• possible side effects such as unexplained supply of treatment as part of multi-month
loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dispensing (MMD). Those on longer
abdominal discomfort, persistent fatigue or treatment regimens (≥6 months) may
weakness, dark-coloured urine, pale stools be enrolled on central chronic medicine
and jaundice dispensing and distribution (CCMDD).
• infection control, including cough hygiene Refer to the CCMDD Standard Operating
and adequate ventilation Procedure (SOP) 12: Enrolment and
management of patients on treatment for
• undesirable effects of using alcohol and latent TB infection, treatment for DS-TB
smoking while on treatment or drug resistant TB onto the CCMDD
• what to do when experiencing adverse programme, for guidance.
effects, which could include returning to a
health facility 11.3 Adverse events
• develop an adherence plan together with While most of the adverse events are minor and
the patient focusing on weekly or daily occur rarely, specific attention should be paid to
adherence strategies, depending on drug-induced hepato-toxicity, severe peripheral
individual’s treatment regimen and support neuropathy as well as hypersensitivity. Assess
required during the treatment period (for individual for signs and symptoms suggestive of
an example of an adherence plan, see hepatitis such as new-onset vomiting, right upper
Annexure B). quadrant pain and jaundice – if any of these are
present, stop treatment immediately and refer to
hospital for further assessment.
28
All adverse events should be reported using the standard reporting form as per the National Pharmacovigilance
Centre (NPC) Guidelines (Annexure A).
Table 3. Management of common adverse events
Drug(s)
Adverse event Signs/symptoms Management
responsible
Peripheral Isoniazid(H) Tingling or burning Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) must be
Neuropathy sensation of the fingers increased from 25mg to 100mg daily until
and/or toes that usually the symptoms disappear.
occurs in a glove and
If the peripheral neuropathy is severe or
stocking distribution
worsens, then H should be discontinued
immediately. Consider a Rifampicin only
alternative TPT regimen.
Hepatotoxicity Isoniazid(H) Symptoms: Stop Isoniazid and Rifampicin or
Rifapentine (P) Rifapentine immediately.
Nausea, vomiting,
Rifampicin (R)
abdominal tenderness, Refer the individual to the hospital/
discomfort near the medical officer immediately for further
ribs on the right upper evaluation.
abdomen, jaundice
(yellowing of skin and
whites of the eyes)
Signs:
Hepatic enlargement,
increased liver function
tests (LFTs)
Gastrointestinal Isoniazid(H) Symptoms: Rule out other causes.
Uncommon at Rifampicin (R)
Nausea, vomiting, Conduct LFTs to rule out drug-induced
recommended Rifapentine (P)
diarrhoea hepatic dysfunction.
daily doses
Continue treatment based on severity of
symptoms.
Treat symptomatically (if no other cause
is found).
Flushing reaction Isoniazid(H) Symptoms: Reassure individual and inform about
avoiding tyramine and histamine-
Flushing and/or itching of
containing foods (e.g. tuna, cheese, red
the skin with or without
wine) while receiving Isoniazid – consider
a rash, hot flushes,
a referral to a dietitian.
palpitations, headache
Flushing is usually mild and resolves
Signs:
without treatment.
Increased blood pressure
If flushing is bothersome to the individual,
an antihistamine may be administered to
treat the reaction.
Mild itching rash Isoniazid(H) Mild rash and itching Treat with antihistamine and topical
Rifapentine (P) steroid creams.
Hypersensitivity Isoniazid(H) Symptoms: Discontinue treatment until the reaction

uncommon resolves.
Hives (raised, itchy
usually occurs
rash), fever (may occur)
–three to seven
weeks after
initiation of
treatment
29
Drug(s)
Adverse event Signs/symptoms Management
responsible
Hypersensitivity Rifapentine (P) Symptoms: If mild reaction e.g. rash, dizziness, fever:
reaction Continue treatment and manage the
Flu-like symptoms, fever,
occurs after the adverse events.
headache, dizziness,
first three to four
shortness of breath, If severe reaction e.g. thrombocytopenia
doses and begins
wheezing, nausea, or hypotension, discontinue treatment
approximately
muscle and bone pain, and refer to hospital.
four hours after
rash, itching, red eyes,
ingestion of
hypotension or shock
medication
11.4 Drug-drug Interactions

Points to note:
• Daily Rifampicin plus Isoniazid for three months (3RH) should not be given to infants and children
on protease inhibitors (PI) or nevirapine-based ART due to drug-drug interactions.
• Rifapentine and INH (3HP) should not be offered to ART-naïve individuals starting Dolutegravir-
containing ART due to lack of evidence at this stage. 3HP should be deferred until individuals have
been on ART with a Dolutegravir-containing regimen until virally suppressed.
Table 4. Drug-drug interactions
TPT drug Drug-Drug interaction Recommendation

Double Dolutegravir dose to 50mg
Rifampicin Dolutegravir 12-hourly
decreases the Offer Isoniazid monotherapy
levels of: Efavirenz Offer Isoniazid monotherapy
Protease inhibitors e.g. Lopinavir/Ritonavir Offer Isoniazid monotherapy
Protease inhibitors e.g. Lopinavir/Ritonavir Offer Isoniazid monotherapy
Nevirapine Offer Isoniazid monotherapy
Rifapentine
decreases the Use barrier method
Oral and implantable contraceptives
levels of: Offer injectable contraceptive method
Offer Isoniazid monotherapy to ART
Dolutegravir
naïve PLHIV
Treatment adherence and completion of treatment
Adherence and completion of treatment are important for ensuring successful treatment and preventing the
development of TB disease. Education and counselling must be provided on an ongoing basis.
11.5 Treatment interruption and discontinuation

Categorisation of treatment interruption
• Individuals who are initiated on the longer treatment regimens (six or more months) who
interrupt treatment should be categorised as follows:
• interrupted treatment for less than three consecutive months
• interrupted treatment for more than three consecutive months
• interrupted treatment for a second time regardless of duration of interruption, despite adherence
counselling
• Individuals who are initiated on the shorter regimens (three to four months) who interrupt treatment
should be categorised as follows:
• interrupted treatment for less than four consecutive weeks
30
• interrupted treatment for more than four consecutive weeks

• interrupted treatment for a second time regardless of duration of interruption, despite adherence
counselling
Individuals who interrupt treatment should be managed as outlined in Table 5.
Table 5. Management of individuals who interrupt treatment
Duration of interruption Management

If an individual misses one For daily doses: The individual should take the missed dose as soon as
dose they remember within the same day. If this is on the following day, take the
next scheduled dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not take
two doses on the same day.
For weekly doses: The individual should take the missed dose as soon as
they remember within three days, continue the next dose as scheduled or
start a new weekly schedule based on the day you took the missed dose.
If an individual interrupts • Enquire about the reasons for treatment interruption.
treatment for less than one
• Address individual’s concerns.
month for a short regimen or
less than three consecutive • Counsel the individual on the importance of adherence.
months for a longer TPT
• Screen clinically for TB symptoms.
regimen
• If signs and symptoms of TB are present, conduct investigations to
exclude TB.
• If asymptomatic and no signs of TB disease, continue treatment
including missed doses.
If an individual interrupts • Enquire about the reasons for treatment interruption.
treatment for one or more
• Address individual’s concerns.
month for a short regimen or
three or more consecutive • If this is the first interruption and the individual commits to taking
months for a longer TPT treatment:
regimen
• reassess for eligibility
• provide intensive counselling
• restart treatment
• refer to relevant services (psychologist, dietitian, social worker etc.)
based on the patient’s need
If an individual interrupts Do not consider for retreatment.
treatment for a second time
regardless of duration of
interruption, despite adherence
counselling
31
12. MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Monitoring is the periodic assessment of programme TB identification register – this register is used to
activities to determine whether they are proceeding record all presumptive TB patients.
as planned. It provides managers with continuous
feedback on implementation, to make informed TIER.Net - This is an electronic information system
decisions regarding service delivery and ensure used to capture patients started on treatment and to
effective and efficient use of resources for maximum monitor outcomes.
impact. Evaluation, on the other hand, is a periodic
in-depth time-bound analysis which aims to assess Data flow processes and reporting
performance and overall impact of the programme
systematically and objectively. • Facilities, districts and provinces are expected
to report according to the District Health
Data collection tools Management Information System (DHMIS) Policy
and processes illustrated in Figure 6.
Patient record folder - this is a standard record where
• With facility level digitisation, data from the
all patient clinical information is recorded for each
patient folders is captured directly into the three
visit. It serves as a source document for capturing in
interlinked electronic registers (TIER) system at
the electronic register.
facility level daily. It is then dispatched to the next
level on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Primary healthcare (PHC) tick register - this register is
used to collect the data elements needed to compile • At each level the data should be checked and
routine monthly statistics. This includes information signed off by the manager before reporting to the
on TB screening, eligibility and initiation of TPT. next level.
Figure 6. Illustration of the data flow process from the facility to national level and reporting timeline
32
Cascade analysis at facility level

• Facilities must conduct a care cascade analysis of aggregated data from screening to treatment outcomes.
This will help to identify gaps/leakages within the cascade and develop plans to address the gaps using
the quality improvement methodology. Examples of TB evaluation cascades for HIV-positive clients and
contacts of TB index patients are illustrated in Figures 7 and 8.
• District, provincial and national levels must monitor progress against their cascades. The managers at
these levels should identify facilities, districts and provinces that are struggling to meet targets using the
dashboards and develop plans to provide intensive support.
Figure 7. Illustration of a cascade for HIV-positive clients

Targets
90% 100% 90%
HIV Number Number Elibible TPT Treatment

Positive tested that start completion
for TB tested
disease
negative

Figure 8. Illustration of a cascade for contacts

Targets
90% 100% 90%
HIV Number Number TPT Treatment

Positive tested who start completion
for TB tested
disease
negative

Proposed data elements

• Number of individuals eligible for TPT.
• Number of individuals started on TPT.
• Number of individuals who successfully completed treatment.
• Number of individuals lost to follow-up during treatment.
• Number of individuals who died during treatment.
33
ANNEXURES
34
Annexure A: Pharmacovigilance Form
35
Annexure B: Adherence Plan
Adherence Step 1: Education of patient

• How treatment for TB infection differs from treatment for TB disease.
• Type of treatment regimen suitable for the patient and why.
• Risk factors associated with treatment, such as:
• side effects of treatment regimen chosen
• interactions with other medicines
• risk of getting infected with TB whilst on treatment
• risk of developing TB disease whilst on treatment
• the importance of completing the full course of treatment
Adherence Step 2: Life goals:

My motivations to stay healthy are:
(1)
(2)
(3)
It is important for the client to have a health goal to motivate him- or herself to not interrupt their treatment. The
long-term benefit of TPT to their overall health should override the inconvenience of taking treatment before
they feel sick.
Adherence Step 3: Patient support system

Agree for home visit (where possible): Yes No
Who can support me during my treatment?
Adherence Step 4: Getting to appointments

How will I get to my clinic appointments:
The best time to collect my treatment will be:
If I face difficulties with keeping clinic appointments my alternative plan will be:
Adherence Step 5 - Treatment schedule

The best time for me to take my treatment is:
I am taking the following treatment and I will add this treatment to my daily dose:
I am not taking any other medication and will need a reminder to take my weekly/daily dose:
Adherence Step 6: Reminder strategies

To remind me to take treatment, I will use:
Adherence Step 7: Managing missed doses

If I miss a dose, I know exactly what to do to get back to my regular treatment schedule: Yes No
36
Adherence Step 8: Storing medication and extra doses

I will store my medication in:
I will carry extra supply and keep it in:
Adherence Step 9: Dealing with side-effects

I know what side effects to expect Yes No
If I experience side effects, I will:
Adherence Step 10: Planning for trips

If I have some trips planned, before going away I will:
In case I cannot come to the health facility before going away, I will:
Adherence Step 11: Dealing with substance use

I am aware of the implications of taking alcohol with the treatment
Yes No
My plan is to
37
Annexure C:
TPT INTEGRATION INTO REPEAT PRESCRIPTION
COLLECTION STRATEGIES FOR CLINICALLY STABLE PLHIV
ON ART
Background TPT initiation and completion within

DSD model
South African Adherence Guidelines enable clinically
stable ART patients to access multi-month ART supply Where adult patients are already enrolled in a RPCs
and easier drug supply collection through Repeat (facility pick-up point, adherence club or external
Prescription Collection Strategies (RPCs), namely pick-up point) and have previously missed TPT, these
facility pick-up points, adherence clubs and external patients should be supported to complete a course of
pick-up points, from six months on ART and other 12H within their RPCs model. These patients should
chronic conditions. These RPCs are either based at be assessed at their annual comprehensive clinical
their health facility or in the community, including at consultation visit by their clinician for TPT eligibility
private pharmacies, private general practitioners and and if eligible, initiated on TPT and scripted for six
community venues. months of ART and TPT treatment supply. Patients
will collect their TPT supply within their RPCs model
Patients should not be prevented from accessing but will be required to return to the health facility
RPCs, which support long-term adherence and one month after TPT start for clinical follow-up.
retention, when completing their course of TPT. In Thereafter, RPCs patients will be screened for any
addition, patients already enrolled in RPCs who TB symptoms or side effects by their RPCs service
previously missed TPT should be provided with provider and referred to their health facility should
access to TPT without being removed from their any side effects or ill health be identified for follow-
RPCs. up. Emphasis must be placed on patient treatment
literacy, especially at TPT start, to support patients
Completion of TPT prior to enrolment to identify any side effects and return to their health
in differentiated service delivery (DSD) facility outside of scheduled appointment dates
model if necessary. Patients will have a further TPT
clinical follow-up assessment at six months when
Where patients have started TPT at ART start and returning for their RPCs rescripting visit and for their
the TPT treatment course is shorter than six months TPT completion assessment at their next annual
(e.g., 3HP), TPT should be completed prior to the comprehensive clinical consultation visit.
assessment for and enrolment in RPCs (facility
pick-up points, adherence clubs or external pick-up Transition to TLD regimen
points).
For patients making use of RPCs who are eligible
Where patients have started TPT at ART start or after and opting to switch to TLD, TPT eligibility should
ART start but not completed their TPT course prior to be assessed at switch. For TPT eligible patients,
enrolment in an RPCs, at least three months of TPT 3HP could be offered to the patient to be started
must have been completed and clinical assessment with TLD, provided the patient agrees to additional
for adverse events undertaken. Where a patient is facility clinical review dates. Alternatively, 12H can be
assessed as clinically stable on TPT, TPT treatment scripted and aligned with RPCs review dates.
supply can be provided on the same multi-month
basis as ART supply and can be provided through
the same RPCs.
38
REFERENCES
1. First National TB Prevalence Survey 2018. Pretoria, South Africa: National Department of Health, South
Africa, 2021.
2. Global TB Report. Geneva: World Health Organisation, , 2020.
3. Mortality and causes of death in South Africa, 2016: Findings from death notification. . Pretoria, South
Africa: Statistics SA., 2018.
4. WHO High-Level Event galvanizes commitment and action to accelerate the global drive to scale up
TB prevention. 2021. https://www.who.int/news/item/16-06-2021-who-high-level-event-galvanizes-
commitment-and-action-to-accelerate-the-global-drive-to-scale-up-tb-prevention.
5. Shah M, Kasambira TS, Adrian PV, Madhi SA, Martinson NA, Dorman SE. Longitudinal analysis of
QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube in children with adult household tuberculosis contact in South Africa: a
prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2011; 6(10): e26787.
6. Van Rie A, McCarthy K, Scott L, Dow A, Venter WD, Stevens WS. Prevalence, risk factors and risk
perception of tuberculosis infection among medical students and healthcare workers in Johannesburg,
South Africa. South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde 2013; 103(11):
853-7.
7. Hanifa Y, Grant AD, Lewis J, Corbett EL, Fielding K, Churchyard G. Prevalence of latent tuberculosis
infection among gold miners in South Africa. The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease :
the official journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease 2009; 13(1): 39-46.
8. Mahomed H, Hawkridge T, Verver S, et al. Predictive factors for latent tuberculosis infection among
adolescents in a high-burden area in South Africa. The international journal of tuberculosis and lung
disease : the official journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease 2011; 15(3):
331-6.
9. Wood R, Liang H, Wu H, et al. Changing prevalence of tuberculosis infection with increasing age in high-
burden townships in South Africa. The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease : the official
journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease 2010; 14(4): 406-12.
10. Middelkoop K, Bekker LG, Myer L, Dawson R, Wood R. Rates of tuberculosis transmission to children
and adolescents in a community with a high prevalence of HIV infection among adults. Clinical infectious
diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America 2008; 47(3): 349-55.
11. Basera TJ, Ncayiyana J, Engel ME. Prevalence and risk factors of latent tuberculosis infection in Africa: a
systematic review and meta-analysis protocol. BMJ open 2017; 7(7): e012636.
12. National Department of Health. South Africa’s National Strategic Plan for HIV,TB and STIs 2017 -
2022. Pretoria, South Africa: National Department of Health, 2017. http://sanac.org.za/wp-content/
uploads/2017/05/NSP_FullDocument_FINAL.pdf. (Accessed 15 February, 2018).
13. Uplekar M, Weil D, Lonnroth K, et al. WHO’s new end TB strategy. Lancet (London, England) 2015;
385(9979): 1799-801.
14. Akolo C, Adetifa I, Shepperd S, Volmink J. Treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in HIV infected
persons. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2010; (1): CD000171.
15. De Jager P, Churchyard GJ, Ismail N, Kyaw KKK, Murray J, Nshuti L. Clinical guidelines on isoniazid
preventive therapy for patients with silicosis in South Africa. Occup Health South Africa 2014; 20(11).
16. Sterling TR, Villarino ME, Borisov AS, et al. Three months of rifapentine and isoniazid for latent tuberculosis
infection. The New England journal of medicine 2011; 365(23): 2155-66.
17. Njie GJ, Morris SB, Woodruff RY, Moro RN, Vernon AA, Borisov AS. Isoniazid-Rifapentine for Latent
Tuberculosis Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. American journal of preventive medicine
2018; 55(2): 244-52.
18. Spyridis NP, Spyridis PG, Gelesme A, et al. The effectiveness of a 9-month regimen of isoniazid alone
versus 3- and 4-month regimens of isoniazid plus rifampin for treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in
children: results of an 11-year randomized study. Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the
Infectious Diseases Society of America 2007; 45(6): 715-22.
39
19. Vernon A, Burman W, Benator D, Khan A, Bozeman L. Acquired rifamycin monoresistance in patients
with HIV-related tuberculosis treated with once-weekly rifapentine and isoniazid. Tuberculosis Trials
Consortium. Lancet (London, England) 1999; 353(9167): 1843-7.
20. WHO consolidated guidelines on tuberculosis. Module 2: screening – systematic screening for tuberculosis
disease. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organisation,, 2021.
21. Latent tuberculosis infection: updated and consolidated guidelines for programmatic management.
Geneva: World Health Organization, 2018.
22. Multi-drug resistant tuberculosis: A policy framweork on decentralised and deinstitutionalised management
for South Africa Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health, 2019.
40

DOH - TB TX Guidelines - 2023

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

DOH - TB TX Guidelines - 2023

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

DOH - TB TX Guidelines - 2023

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

National Guidelines on THE TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION

6.2 TPT SHOULD BE DEFERRED OR NOT OFFERED IF THE PREGNANT WOMAN: 21

Table 1. Summary of TPT regimen options by patient type 11

The COVID-19 pandemic has reversed the gains

ART Antiretroviral treatment

Support for people on TPT

1. INTRODUCTION AND RATIONALE

1.1 Background 1.2 TB Preventive Treatment (TPT)

1st evaluation of all adults,

Evaluation for TB disease

Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide adherence support,

Table 1. Summary of TPT regimen options by patient type

within the next two weeks.

Post TB treatment: Offer TPT to all PLHIV ≥25 kg after successfully

and start TPT after active TB disease has been excluded.

2. PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES

3. ORGANISATION OF THE GUIDELINES

There is some overlap between sections and

4. ADULT, ADOLESCENT AND OLDER CHILD CONTACTS

• for women: more than four standard drinks • haemoptysis

There are currently four potential regimens for this

Pre-treatment body weight RH (150,75) RH (300,150)

Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

Drug Dosage Number of tablets (daily) Duration

All adult and adolescent living with HIV

Xpert/u-LAM NEGATIVE and/or Xpert/u-LAM POSITIVE

Further Investigate for TB and

Oﬀer TB Start appropriate TB treatment

Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide

5. CHILD CONTACTS: CHILDREN WEIGHING LESS THAN 25

Significant exposure is known (documented) 5.3.1 Evaluation of child contacts

5.3 Management of TPT in children • lethargy/fatigue (decreased playfulness)

All infants and children with 1st evaluation of all children

Evaluate for TB disease

No signs or symptoms Signs or symptoms

CXR not CXR Test for TB

Review or refer to next Start TB treatment,

Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB,

5.3.2.1 Recommended daily dosages for 3RH in HIV-negative children <25kg

RH (Daily) fixed dose combinations

Weight band (kg) Daily INH 100mg tablet Duration

5.4 Management of TPT in children living In newborns, TB disease should be excluded by

Figure 4. Algorithm for TB preventive treatment for TB-exposed newborns

Undertake appropriate clinical

Yes Mother (or other close contact) on TB treatment >=

Contact drug Contact drug

Support adherence, evaluate safety, check weight and adjust

6. TPT IN PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN WITH

Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

7. PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV (PLHIV): ADULTS,

Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

Drug Dose Maximum Dose/day Duration Interval

For managing the TB-exposed infant, please refer to Section 5.

All adult and adolescent living with HIV

Xpert/u-LAM NEGATIVE and/or Xpert/u-LAM POSITIVE

Further Investigate for TB and

Oﬀer TB Start appropriate TB treatment

Follow up for new symptoms or signs of TB, provide