Final answer:
The treatment of active TB in a mother requires a regimen of antibiotics such as isoniazid and rifampin. The newborn might get a BCG vaccine, and exclusive breastfeeding is generally safe if the mother is under treatment and not infectious. Delivery methods and infant monitoring are also adapted to prevent transmission.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of Active Tuberculosis in a Newborn's Mother
The treatment of active tuberculosis (TB) in a mother, especially if she is nursing a newborn, is a critical health issue that involves several considerations to prevent mother-to-child transmission. When a mother is diagnosed with active TB, she may be prescribed a regimen of antibiotics including isoniazid and rifampin, taken for an extended period. These antibiotics are part of a drug cocktail known for its efficacy in treating TB.
It's essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and take the medications as prescribed to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the risk of developing drug-resistant TB strains. The baby might receive a Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine to provide some level of protection against the disease. Moreover, exclusive breastfeeding is generally safe for infants if the mother is on treatment and is not considered infectious, because TB is not transmitted via breast milk. However, each case must be assessed individually by healthcare professionals.
Preventative measures also extend to the birthing process; if the mother has active TB at the time of delivery, she might require isolation to prevent transmission to the baby, and in some cases, a cesarean delivery may be advised. Healthcare providers will also closely monitor both mother and child for signs of TB following birth.