Indicated for: prevention of tuberculosis
Route of administration: injectable
Substance: BCG vaccine (vaccine)
ATC: J07AN01 (Antiinfectives for systemic use | Bacterial vaccines | Tuberculosis vaccines)
Risk of severe allergic reaction. Seek urgent medical help if serious symptoms occur.
Do not use this medicine during pregnancy.
Avoid live vaccines during treatment if contraindicated.
This medicine is subject to additional monitoring.
Store in the refrigerator as instructed in the leaflet.
Store protected from light.
The BCG vaccine (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) is a vaccine used to prevent tuberculosis (TB), particularly severe forms such as tuberculous meningitis and miliary tuberculosis in children. It is derived from an attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis, a close relative of the bacterium that causes TB.
The BCG vaccine is typically administered intradermally within the first days or months of life, especially in countries where tuberculosis is endemic. While it does not provide complete protection against all forms of TB, it is effective in reducing the risk of severe complications in children.
Side effects are generally mild and include redness, swelling, or a small lesion at the injection site, which heals within a few weeks. Rarely, local lymphadenopathy or more severe infections may occur, particularly in individuals with immunodeficiencies.
The BCG vaccine is not recommended for individuals with severe immunodeficiencies (such as those caused by HIV) or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments. Administration should be performed by qualified medical personnel in accordance with national vaccination guidelines.