Management of a newborn when Mother has active Tuberculosis & is taking ATT –

BCG is given to all new born infants INH therapy for newborns is considered 'essential' these days. It is so effective that separation of mother and infant is no longer considered mandatory. Ideally INH therapy should be continued for at least 3 months after the mother has been shown to be sputum negative. However, an initial course for 6 weeks, can be considered, if reevaluation is planned at the end of this period. Breast feeding: can be continued in presence of INH therapy to the child. In the Indian context, Breast feeding is very important and definitely deserves a place in management of this child. Rifampicin as a modality holds no place in the current situation as the child is not mentioned to be 'diseased'. Moreover, the mother is already on ATT.