Understanding the BCG Vaccine: A Comprehensive Guide
What is Tuberculosis?
Overview of Tuberculosis in Children:
Tuberculosis (TB), particularly in children under 5 years of age, is a significant health concern. While pulmonary TB (affecting the lungs) is most common, TB can also affect other organs (extrapulmonary TB). The spread of TB germs through the blood to vital organs, such as the brain and lungs, can be life-threatening.
Overview of Tuberculosis in Children:
India bears a substantial burden of TB, accounting for about 26% of cases globally. Alarmingly, TB of the brain, which is the most dangerous form of childhood TB, predominantly affects children below 5 years
BCG Vaccine: Protection Against Serious TB Forms
Understanding BCG Vaccine:
BCG, or Bacille Calmette Guerin vaccine, is derived from weakened TB germs. This vaccine is exceptionally effective in preventing serious forms of TB in children.
Vaccination Schedule and Eligibility:
The BCG vaccine is typically administered to all newborns (with few exceptions) on the left upper arm intradermally.
Ideally, it should be given at discharge from the hospital or within 2 weeks after birth. If missed, it can be administered up to 5 years of age.
A second dose is generally not necessary.
Post-Vaccination Changes
Expected Changes After Vaccination:
Initially, the vaccination site may show no change, but after a few days, a small, raised spot may develop, transforming into a blister and then a crusty scab, eventually leading to a small scar.
The complete process from vaccination to scar formation may take between 6 weeks to 3 months.
Typically, no treatment is required, and the area should be left uncovered.
Safety and Side Effects of the BCG Vaccine
General Safety and Side Effects:
BCG is a safe vaccine, though some common side effects include prolonged pus formation and delayed healing at the vaccination site.
Rarely, swelling in the left armpit (gland enlargement due to the vaccine) may occur, usually resolving without treatment over a few months.
In very rare cases, the swelling may soften, necessitating pus removal.
Who Should Avoid the BCG Vaccine?
Contraindications for BCG Vaccination:
Children with weakened immunity should not receive the vaccine, as the germs could spread throughout the body, posing a significant risk.
Infants showing symptoms and born to HIV-positive mothers.
Infants whose mothers were treated with immune system-weakening drugs during pregnancy.
Families with a history of unexplained infant deaths within the first year of life, pending investigation for potential immune system disorders.
Further Information and Contact:
For more details or personalized advice, please contact your healthcare provider.
Aloha Kids Clinic Vaccination Program and Services
Aloha Kids Clinic offers the BCG vaccine. For more information or to discuss any concerns related to the vaccine, please contact the clinic.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current data available. Always consult a pediatrician or healthcare professional for medical advice and before making any vaccination decisions. We strive to keep this information updated, but it may not be updated in real time.
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Contact us
Call us
+91 96060 77401
Visit us at
Aloha Kids Clinic
No 531, 2nd Floor,
Nammalaya Building
Doddakallasandra,
Bangalore – 560062
Send us an email
admin@alohakidsclinic.com
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Contact us
Call us
+91 96060 77401
Visit us at
Aloha Kids Clinic
No 531, 2nd Floor,
Nammalaya Building,
Doddakallasandra,
Bangalore – 560062
Send us an email
admin@alohakidsclinic.com
About us
Subscribe
Sign up for the Aloha newsletter to receive all the news offers and discounts from Aloha Kids clinic.
Copyright by Aloha Kids Clinic,2023. All rights reserved.
Copyright by Aloha kids clinic,2023 All rights reserved.