BCG VACCINE - INJECTION

BCG VACCINE - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION:

GENERIC NAME(S): BCG vaccine, live/PF

Uses

USES: This vaccine is used to prevent tuberculosis (TB) in people who have not been infected with the disease but are at a high risk of getting it. This vaccine is not used to treat tuberculosis. This vaccine contains live bacteria that have been weakened. It works by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. This form of the vaccine is not used to treat or prevent bladder cancer.


How to use BCG VACCINE - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: This vaccine is given by injection into the skin by a health care professional. It is usually given as a single dose in the upper arm area. Dosage is based on your age.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain at the injection site or swollen lymph nodes may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your health care professional promptly. A small red bump may occur at the injection site. This bump will later crust and fall off 6 to 10 weeks later. A small, flat scar may remain. Remember that your health care professional has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your health care professional right away if you have any serious side effects, including: skin sores/bumps, pus at injection site, bone pain, signs of infection (e.g., persistent fever). A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your health care professional. Contact the health care professional for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967. In Canada, you may call the Vaccine Safety Section at Public Health Agency of Canada at 1-866-844-0018.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before you receive this vaccine, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as monosodium glutamate, polysorbate 80, latex), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your health care professional for more details. Before receiving this vaccine, tell your health care professional your medical history, especially of: immune system problems (including HIV, certain cancers such as leukemia/lymphoma), radiation treatment, burns or skin disease over large area of skin, positive tuberculin skin test, current infection/fever. This vaccine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your health care professional for more details. It is unknown if this vaccine passes into breast milk. Consult your health care professional before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Overdose

OVERDOSE: Not applicable.

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Faq for BCG VACCINE - INJECTION

BCG vaccine injection is primarily used for the prevention of tuberculosis (TB) in individuals at high risk, such as infants, children, and healthcare workers who are regularly exposed to TB patients.

BCG vaccine injection contains a weakened form of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. When injected into the skin, it stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight against TB infection if exposed in the future.

BCG vaccine injection is mandatory in some countries as a part of their national immunization programs, while in others it may be recommended for certain high-risk groups or individuals.

Common side effects of BCG vaccine injection can include redness, swelling, and a small sore at the injection site. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as severe swelling, lymphadenitis, or disseminated BCG infection may occur.

BCG vaccine injection provides partial protection against TB, especially in childhood. However, its effectiveness in preventing adult pulmonary TB is limited, and additional measures like proper hygiene, tuberculosis screening, and treatment should still be followed.

Yes, BCG vaccine injection can cause a positive TB skin test, also known as a tuberculin skin test (TST) or Mantoux test. This is because the vaccine contains similar proteins to the TB bacteria and can trigger an immune response.

BCG vaccine injection is primarily used for TB prevention and is not effective against other respiratory infections or diseases such as COVID-19.

There is limited data available on the safety of BCG vaccine injection during pregnancy. It is generally not recommended unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

The BCG vaccine is generally not recommended for individuals with severely weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or who have HIV/AIDS. However, the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional based on the individual's specific circumstances.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.