About Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Vaccine:
- It is the live attenuated vaccine form of Mycobacterium bovis.
- It is used to prevent tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections.
- Developed By: It was developed by Calmette and Guérin and was first administered to human beings in 1921.
- It is the only vaccine against tuberculosis.
- It is the most widely administered vaccine and usually a part of the routine newborn immunization schedule.
- Other Uses:
- It also offers protection against non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections like leprosy and Buruli ulcer.
- It is also used in the treatment of superficial carcinoma of the bladder.
- The vaccine is administered intradermally.
- It has two components, a freeze-dried vaccine and a diluent to be used to reconstitute the vaccine, presented in amber glass ampoules and colourless ampoules respectively.
Key facts about Tuberculosis (TB)
- It is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs.
- It is curable and preventable disease
- Transmission:
- TB is spread from person to person through the air.
- When people with lung TB cough, sneeze or spit, they propel the TB germs into the air.
- Even after inhaling a few drops of these germs, a person can get infected.
- Symptoms of TB
- Persistent cough for more than 3 weeks, often with blood
- Weight loss, night sweats, high fever, fatigue, Loss of appetite, chest pain, swollen lymph nodes.
- Treatment: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine provides moderate protection, mainly for severe TB in infants and children.
