About

It is derived from a strain of the Mycobacterium bovis bacteria and is administered through a small injection just below the skin. The vaccine has been in use since 1921 and is considered to be safe and effective in preventing severe forms of TB, particularly in children. The BCG vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce a response that targets Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for causing TB. It helps the body fight off the infection and reduces the risk of serious complications, such as meningitis or disseminated TB. While the BCG vaccine is widely used in countries with a high prevalence of TB, its effectiveness varies depending on factors such as age, geographical location, and the strain of TB. It is most effective at preventing severe forms of the disease in children, but its protective effect against adult pulmonary TB is limited. Apart from TB, the BCG vaccine has also shown some effectiveness against other diseases, such as leprosy and bladder cancer. However, its use for preventing these conditions is still being researched and is not widely implemented. The BCG vaccine is generally considered safe, with only mild and temporary side effects, such as a small ulcer at the injection site and regional lymphadenitis. Severe adverse reactions are rare but can include generalized infection or anaphylaxis. Various strategies are being explored to improve the efficacy of the BCG vaccine, including developing new strains, administering booster doses, and investigating combination therapies with other vaccines. Research is ongoing to develop a more effective vaccine against TB, but the BCG vaccine remains an important tool in the global fight against the disease, particularly in areas with a high burden of TB.