Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 511-2-3-.01 - Purpose

(1) The purpose of this chapter is to prevent spread of tuberculosis and to prevent the development of new cases.

(2) The Georgia Department of Public Health or its designee (Department) has the responsibility of developing procedures to ensure that persons with suspected cases of tuberculosis receive prompt diagnostic tests and persons with confirmed cases are given written treatment plans and an adequate oral explanation thereof which, if observed, can prevent the disease from spreading and lead to the recovery of the patient.

(3) A person with pulmonary tuberculosis, and positive sputum, who refuses to take prescribed chemotherapy is a threat to the health of the community. Each time this individual coughs or sneezes, living virulent tubercle bacilli are dispersed on droplet nuclei into the area. By inhaling these virulent bacilli, any individual living or being in close contact with this diseased person over a period of time may become infected with the disease. Furthermore, any person with tuberculosis who refuses to take the full recommended course of therapy is a threat to the community due to the possibility of that person developing drug resistant tuberculosis.

Notes

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 511-2-3-.01

O.C.G.A. Secs. 31-2A-6, 31-14-1, 31-14-10, 31-14-12.

Original Rule entitled "Purpose" adopted. F. Sep. 20, 2013; eff. Oct. 10, 2013.