BCG vaccine facts for kids
The BCG vaccine is a special shot that helps protect people from a serious sickness called tuberculosis (TB). TB is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs. The vaccine is named after the scientists who created it, Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin.
In places where TB is common, doctors recommend that healthy babies get one dose of the BCG vaccine soon after they are born. In areas where TB is not very common, only children who are at a higher risk of getting sick usually receive the vaccine. Adults who might be around TB often, and haven't had the vaccine before, can also get it. The BCG vaccine can also help protect against other similar germ infections and is sometimes used to help treat a type of bladder cancer.
Contents
How the Vaccine Works
The BCG vaccine helps your body fight off TB. It doesn't prevent everyone from getting infected, but it makes the sickness much less likely to be severe.
Protection Levels
The vaccine's protection against TB can last for up to 20 years. For children, it stops about 20% from getting infected with the TB germ. For those who do get infected, it protects half of them from actually developing the sickness. The vaccine is given as a shot right into the skin. Getting more doses of the vaccine doesn't seem to offer extra protection.
What's in the Vaccine?
The BCG vaccine was first made from a type of germ found in cattle, called Mycobacterium bovis. This germ is weakened a lot so it can't make you sick, but it's still alive. This is why it's called a "live vaccine." It helps your body learn to fight off the real TB germ.
Side Effects
Like many medicines, the BCG vaccine can cause some side effects, but serious ones are rare.
Common Side Effects
- You might notice some redness, swelling, and a little pain where you got the shot.
- Sometimes, a small sore might form at the injection spot.
- After the sore heals, it might leave a small scar.
Important Considerations
Side effects can be more common or more serious for people who have weaker immune systems. Doctors don't usually recommend the vaccine for pregnant people because there isn't enough information yet about its safety for unborn babies, even though no harm has been seen.
History and Use
The BCG vaccine has been helping people for a long time.
When it Started
The BCG vaccine was first used in medicine in 1921. It's now on the World Health Organization's list of really important medicines.
Global Impact
Around the world, about 100 million children receive the BCG vaccine every year. However, it's not commonly given in the United States.
Images for kids
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French poster promoting the BCG vaccine
