Use of the Index Case in the Study of Tuberculosis in Williamson County

Abstract

The study presented includes investigation of the families of all cases of tuberculosis, the record of the family since establishment, examination of the present members, and the continuous observation of these families. The use of the index case method permits a valid comparison of the prevalence of the disease and the risk of attack and of death for household associates of cases of designated clinical types of tuberculosis. From the knowledge obtained through the study of the disease by this method, a sound program can be developed for the control of tuberculosis.