BCG
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Introduction
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The BCG vaccine protects against TB (tuberculosis).
It is given to babies from the following high-risk groups
shortly after they are born.
- Babies born to families from countries with a high
prevalence of TB (for example, India
and countries in Africa and the Far East).
- Babies who will be staying for more than one month
in a country with a high rate of TB.
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Effectiveness
BCG vaccine only gives about 70% protection but does protect
against more serious forms of the disease such as TB meningitis.
Protection given by BCG is long-lasting – at least
15 years.
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Side
Effects
Except when BCG is given to babies of
3 months of age or less, everyone requiring BCG will have
a Heaf test before getting the vaccine. If the test is
positive they will not need the vaccine but may require
follow up by a chest physician.
The vaccine is normally given as an injection in the upper part of the
left arm. Occasionally a shallow ulcer may develop which may need to
be covered with a dry dressing (never a plaster) if oozing occurs, until
a scab forms. It may take several months to heal. A small scar may be
left.
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