The BCG vaccine (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) is a vaccine primarily used to protect against tuberculosis (TB), particularly severe forms like TB meningitis in children. It should only be administered by trained professionals.

Developed in the early 20th century, the BCG is a live vaccine which contains a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis, a bacterium similar to the one that causes TB. The BCG is commonly administered in the left arm and in most cases will leave a scar at the site.

The vaccine is typically administered in infancy in countries with high TB incidence, for example, countries within Asia, Africa and South America. While it offers strong protection for young children, its effectiveness in children aged >5yrs is more variable.

In Australia, other than indigenous communities residing in some states and territories, the BCG is not a scheduled vaccine. Outside of this, the most common group administered the BCG are migrant families travelling back to their country of origin for extended periods of time (>1 month).

COST: The cost for the consultation and BCG vaccine is $160 with a Medicare rebate of $50.05 available for eligible card holders.

Additional NIP vaccines such as scheduled vaccines, Influenza or the MMR are provided free of charge to eligible children.