HIV is a well-known risk factor for TB and the risk for
TB is estimated to be more than 20 times greater in
those living with HIV [32]. In this sample HCWs living
with HIV had the greatest incidence of TB disease. Reported
HIV prevalence in South African HCWs is estimated
to be between 11% and 16% [10,11]. These data
suggest that the HIV prevalence in HCWs is similar to
that of the general population and that HIV-positive
HCWs are at significant risk of TB and require protection
against TB exposure in health care settings. While
HCWs are offered and encouraged to know their HIV status;
HIV counseling and testing and regular TB screening
uptake remains low [22]. It is imperative for HCWs toknow their HIV status and for those HCWs who are HIVpositive
to be reassigned to low-risk areas when possible,
provided antiretroviral therapy, and offered isoniazid preventive
therapy (IPT) [33,34].