Tuberculosis is one of the most difficult pathogens to kill, and only a few types of disinfectants have TB claims, including phenolic disinfectants and some specialized quat/solvent blends. However, since TB is primarily spread through the air, not through surfaces, TB disinfectants do not necessarily help prevent the spread of TB. Rather, these products are used as a benchmark, and assumed to kill many other pathogens less resistant than tuberculosis. This is why TB disinfectants are often considered “intermediate-level disinfectants.”

The CDC has developed a three-tier plan to prevent the spread of TB. The first tier, administrative measures, reduces the risk of contact with TB. The second tier, environmental controls, reduces the amount of TB in the air. The third tier, respiratory protective equipment, protects in areas of high risk of TB infection.

Multi-Clean offers a ready-to-use TB disinfectant, Microcide TB, for use in health care facilities and anywhere TB and other pathogens are of concern.

For more information on tuberculosis infection control, visit the CDC website or the Multi-Clean website. Also be sure to check out our blog post on TB Infection & Disease.