What is the full form of BCG

BCG: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin

BCG stands for Bacillus Calmette-Guerin. It is a vaccine that provides protection against tuberculosis; it helps build immunity against tuberculosis. The vaccine was developed by two French bacteriologists Albert Calmette and Camille Guerin. It was first used in 1921 by Dr Weil-Hale for the treatment of a child who had tuberculosis. In the next three years (up to 1924), around 320 infants were vaccinated with BCG.

The vaccine is given to children and persons at higher risk developing tuberculosis such as people living in the TB-affected parts of the world or children having one or more parents affected with TB or born in the TB-affected countries. It is also given to people suffering from bladder tumors or bladder cancer.

How BCG Vaccine Works?

BCG vaccine is a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis which is a type of bacteria that cause TB. This vaccine when administered in the body stimulates the immune system in response to the bacteria without actually causing the disease. The antibodies remain in the body that protects against future infections with the same bacteria. Thus, BCG vaccine helps our body to produce antibodies against the bacteria of TB that provides immunity against tuberculosis.

Who should not get BCG?

This vaccine can cause complications in some people. It includes people who;

• Have had TB before
• Have an HIV infection
• Have a positive Mantoux (skin) test
• Have weak immune system due to an underlying condition or other medicines, and pregnant women.

Precautions and Care

• The vaccine should be taken after consulting the doctor.
• Keep the vaccination area clean and dry for around 24 hours.
• Use a dry dressing with gauze if the vaccination area starts to ooze.
• If required sterile alcohol swab can be used to clean the area.
• Do not apply any ointment, antiseptic cream, band-aid, etc.