Global TB Threat: Workplace Strategies to Combat Rising Incidence Beyond High-Burden Countries

In recognition of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, International SOS, the world's leading health and security risk services company, encourages organisations worldwide to prioritise employee health and implement robust workplace measures to combat TB. TB primarily affects individuals of working age, presenting both challenges and opportunities for TB control in the workplace.

People who live or regularly spend time in countries with high TB prevalence, such as those in parts of Asia and Africa, face an increased risk of TB exposure. Their underlying health conditions and activities they undertake can put them at higher risk of infection. Data from International SOS further highlights this, showing a consistent pattern over the past three years, with the majority of TB-related assistance requests originating from Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.¹ Organisations with operations in or have employees travelling to or from these regions should prioritise TB awareness and prevention efforts for their employees.

While TB is often associated with low-income countries, it is important to acknowledge the rising incidence in developed countries, including the UK and the US. In 2023, the UK recorded an 11% surge in TB diagnoses compared to the previous year. Additionally, recent outbreaks, such as the one in Kansas early this year, serve as a reminder that TB remains a public health concern worldwide. This resurgence underscores the need for proactive TB control measures in all workplaces, regardless of geographical location.

Dr Philippe Guibert, Global Medical Director at International SOS, comments,

“Workplaces, particularly those with poor ventilation and crowded conditions, present a heightened risk of TB transmission. This risk is amplified by close contact among employees, shared workspaces, and the airborne nature of the disease. Comprehensive TB control strategies must incorporate tailored interventions, including regular risk assessments, targeted screening programmes and robust infection control protocols. Moreover, the impact of external factors, such as community prevalence of TB and employee travel to and from high-burden areas, must also be taken into account when developing workplace TB control strategies.

Organisations should also introduce workplace initiatives that include education and stigma reduction by fostering a culture of understanding and support. Furthermore, organisations operating in high-burden countries should coordinate closely with national TB programmes and local health systems. By prioritising these elements, organisations can effectively control TB transmission, promote early diagnosis and treatment, and cultivate a healthier, more productive workplace.”

International SOS recommends the following strategic actions for organisations:

1. Educate and destigmatise: Conduct comprehensive awareness campaigns to inform employees about TB symptoms, transmission, and prevention. Emphasise that TB is treatable and recovery is possible, promoting a culture of understanding and support.
2. Assess and ensure confidentiality: Perform targeted risk assessments, especially for employees working in high-risk environments and/or with high-risk populations. Ensure that all assessments are conducted with strict confidentiality, protecting individual privacy and mitigating fears of discrimination.
3. Screen and offer supportive resources: Proactively promote TB screening, particularly for those in high-risk categories. Alongside screening, provide access to supportive resources, including counselling and peer support, to address the emotional and psychological impact of a potential or confirmed TB diagnosis.
4. Treat and provide workplace accommodation: Ensure accessible and affordable TB treatment. Implement workplace policies that accommodate employees undergoing treatment, provide flexible work arrangements and minimise disruption to their professional lives.
5. Protect travelling employees: Ensure travelling employees receive thorough pre-travel TB risk assessments, location-specific information, and preventative measures. Follow-up with post-travel monitoring, including symptom checks and screenings, particularly for those from high-risk regions.

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_{1. International SOS Assistance Tracker Data (2022 – 2025)}