O-38 - HUMAN MYCOBACTERIUM BOVIS TUBERCULOSIS IN NORTHERN IRELAND: A TEN-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF EPIDEMIOLOGY, EXPOSURES AND OUTCOMES

Le résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Background Since 2019, an apparent increase in human Mycobacterium bovis tuberculosis (TB) notifications has been observed in Northern Ireland (NI), coinciding with increasing prevalence of bovine TB in cattle. Clinical concerns have also been raised regarding severe disease and atypical epidemiological profiles. Objectives To evaluate temporal trends in human M. bovis TB in NI and across the United Kingdom (UK); characterise case demographics and exposure histories; describe clinical outcomes and identify factors associated with adverse outcomes. Methods A retrospective review of M. bovis TB cases in NI between 2013 and 2023 was undertaken. UK Health Security Agency data were used to compare incidence rates and the proportion of TB attributable to M. bovis across the UK. Local enhanced surveillance data described demographics and exposures. Clinical records were reviewed to characterise presentation, treatment and outcomes at two years. Associations with adverse outcomes were explored. Results 39 cases were identified. NI demonstrated higher incidence and higher proportion of TB attributable to M. bovis than other UK regions, with an increase observed since 2019. Most cases were UK-born, aged over 45 and resident in rural or mixed areas. 22 cases had identified exposures, most commonly occupational animal contact and unpasteurised milk consumption, while one third reported no identifiable exposure. Two thirds had pulmonary or lymph-node disease, and 38.5% were immunosuppressed. At two years, 43.6% experienced complications or death. Females and immunosuppressed patients had poorer outcomes. Conclusions Human M. bovis TB remains uncommon but represents a higher and potentially increasing burden in NI. Most cases aligned with recognised epidemiological profiles, but some lacked typical risk factors. Findings support the need for strengthened surveillance and increased clinical and occupational awareness. Word Count 275

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.