How long before I travel should I have the BCG vaccine?

The BCG is a once in a lifetime vaccine, therefore, if you are planning travel in the future, it is better to get it sooner rather than later. In many countries around the world, the vaccine is given shortly after birth. The ideal time frame prior to departure would be a minimum of 4 weeks, however it is better to have had it then not, therefore, even if it is last minute, the vaccine is still recommended.

Does my child need a skin test prior to BCG vaccination?

Children that have travelled to a TB endemic country previously may require a skin test, or a mantoux test as it is officially called, prior to BCG vaccination. This is to ensure that there is no TB immunity present from previous exposure. This will require a second appointment, however there is no additional charge for children that require a skin test.

Can the BCG vaccine be given to children >5yrs of age?

Yes, the BCG is safe to use in children and adults of any age. However, its efficacy is more variable. Older children whom frequently travel to countries with endemic TB, would be recommended the vaccine as the benefit of vaccination would outweight the risk of contracting disease. Older children may require a skin test first.

Does the BCG vaccine leave a scar?

The majority of children that are administered the BCG vaccine are left with a permanent scar on the left arm, it should be <1cm in diameter. A small percentage of children will have no reaction at the site post vaccination and therefore will have no scar, however, all children will develop immunity to TB. Adverse events post BCG vaccination are rare.

Can the BCG vaccine be given at another site other than the left deltoid?

No, it is always recommended to complete the BCG vaccine in the left deltoid.

During the pregnancy, the birth mother was on immune suppressing medication. Can the baby have a BCG?

The use of immune suppression during pregnancy is becoming more common place for mothers with medical conditions including but not limited to- Inflammatory Bowel disease, Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis or Psoriasis. The BCG vaccine is a live vaccine and is not safe for use in persons who are immune suppressed. Babies that have been born to a mother on immune suppression may need to delay BCG vaccination until after 6 months of age. Please contact us prior if you have questions related to this.