BCG Vaccine for your baby: Protection against Tuberculosis

BCG vaccine is a conscious bacterial vaccine given for protection against tuberculosis, mainly severe forms of infantile tuberculosis.

BCG is given anytime from birth to 15 days of life long with the zero dose of oral polio vaccine. BCG is given over the left arm. BCG should be given as early as possible in life, before child originates in contact with tuberculosis. It can be specified up to five years of age.

The efficacy of BCG vaccines where tuberculosis is endemic, children hook the germs early in life and develop primary TB.  Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis.  The most common method of active tuberculosis is the pulmonary form. Symptoms include chronic cough, moderate fever, night time sweat, fatigue, decreased appetite and weight loss.

BCG vaccination should only be considered for children who have a negative tuberculin skin test and who are continually exposed.  TB caused by strains resistant to isoniazid and rifampin.  BCG vaccination should not be given during pregnancy. Even though no harmful effects of BCG vaccination on the fetus have been observed, further studies are needed to prove its safety. 

The tuberculin skin test (TST) and blood tests to detect TB infection are not contraindicated for persons who have been vaccinated with BCG. The vaccination dose is 0.05 ml for children under one year of age including the new born. The vaccine is intended to be injected strictly via the intradermal route. 

BCG Vaccine should be stored in dark between 2°C and 8°C. It is even more stable if stored in temperatures as low as -20°C. Protect from light. The diluent should not be frozen, but should be kept cool.

There is no indication to vaccinate women during pregnancy. Breast-feeding can continue despite vaccination with BCG vaccine. The limitations of BCG vaccines are the following effectiveness is reduced in disseminated tuberculosis diseases.


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