Prevention

Is BCG necessary ?

The BCG is a freeze dried vaccine which should be given at the time of birth. It is given on the left arm, by convention, at the site of insertion of the deltoid. The dose is 0.1 ml. It should be given intradermally. After the injection, a series of reactions may follow and the lesion may evolve from an induration through nodule, pustule finally a scar. A scar is formed at the site, roughly 10-12 weeks after the injection. This vaccine has been both celebrated and condemned in recent times. As of today, the consensus is to administer this vaccine as part of a National Policy against tuberculosis.

The present guidelines are to administer BCG for all babies who exceed 2 kg weight, soon after birth.

The I.A.P. recommends that non appearance of scar mandates a repeat administration of BCG.