Public health dispatch: tuberculosis outbreak in a homeless population--Portland, Maine, 2002-2003

Abstract

During June 2002-July 2003, seven men with active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) disease in Portland, Maine, were reported to the Maine Bureau of Health (MBH). Six were linked through residence at homeless shelters; four had matching Mycobacterium tuberculosis genotypes. Prompt investigation and identification of approximately 1,100 contacts likely prevented further spread of TB. This report summarizes preliminary results of the ongoing investigation and MBH efforts to work with health-care providers statewide to improve early detection of TB among homeless persons.