Efficiency and forecasting of specialized medical care for children and adolescents in the stabilization of the epidemic situation of tuberculosis in the context of epidemics/pandemics

Abstract

Introduction. The incidence rates regulated by the decree of the Government of the Russian Federation have been achieved in the Russian Federation, but the epidemic situation for tuberculosis in the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic remains tense, Primarily due to lockdowns, tuberculosis examinations, especially for children and adolescents, may be reduced.The purpose of the study. Analysis of the effectiveness of preventive measures among children and adolescents in the context of ongoing COVID-19 and predicted other epidemics/pandemics.Materials and methods. The statistical data of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation for the region over the past 30 years and its own scientific research in the region are considered. The results of clinical and laboratory-instrumental methods for detecting tuberculosis in children and adolescents are analyzed.Results. The article examines the effectiveness of providing medical care for tuberculosis to children and adolescents in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are no trends to the deterioration of the epidemic situation, but there is a decrease in the volume and narrowing of the focus of anti-tuberculosis anti-epidemic measures carried out by the anti-tuberculosis service.Conclusions. Taking into account these features of the functioning of the TB service in the conditions of possible predicted other epidemics/pandemics, it is necessary to reorganize the system of providing TB care to children and adolescents with a change/expansion of its functions and material and technical base. A promising option for the intensification of such assistance in the context of pandemics is the integration of its implementation by all health services for the prevention of socially significant infectious diseases.