Progress in Tuberculosis Control in the United States

¹ Medical Director, Chief, Tuberculosis Control Division, U. S. Public Health Service.

During the past year material progress has been made in the several phases of tuberculosis control. Case-finding through mass radiography has been substantially extended. Controlled research on the efficacy of B.C.G. vaccine as a preventive measure has been initiated. The Tuberculosis Control Division has continued the study of histoplasmin sensitivity among nurses. The search for an antibiotic which will be effective against the tubercle bacilli continues with great promise for the future. Results of the use of streptomycin in miliary tuberculosis, cutaneous fistulae, and tuberculous meningitis are encouraging, with preliminary studies indicating promising results in pulmonary tuberculosis. A crystalline substance has been isolated from California Spanish Moss which appears to retard the progress of tuberculosis in guinea pigs.

By direct services rendered through demonstrations and the loan of personnel, the Division has continued its policy of aid to States and local communities.