Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA)

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA) is a medicine used for prevention of tuberculosis. It helps in preventing serious forms of childhood tuberculosis. It is generally given at birth or at first contact till 1 year of age in children.

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA) is given by a doctor or nurse. It should not be self-administered at home. It is especially important to get vaccinated with this medicine if your child is at high risk for exposure to tuberculosis.

Using of this medicine can cause mild local reactions at the site of injection such as pain, swelling, and redness. It is usually temporary and resolve with time without any treatment. However, if any of the side effects bothers you, let your doctor know. Your doctor may help with ways to reduce or prevent these symptoms.

Before having the injection, it is important to let the doctor know if the child has any other illness or if he/she have ever had an allergic reaction to a vaccine. Some other medicines may also react with the vaccine, so let your doctor know of all the other medications your child is taking.

• Prevention of Tuberculosis (TB)

Prevention of Tuberculosis (TB)
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA) is used to prevent tuberculosis, an infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs but can affect other parts of the body as well. It is given as an injection by a doctor or nurse and should not be self-administered. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum benefit.

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Tubervac

• Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA) belongs to a class of medications called vaccines. It triggers body’s natural defense system and prevents tuberculosis infection.

• Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (NA) is effective in protecting babies and young children against tuberculosis (TB).
• It is given by an injection into the skin of upper arm.
• It generally causes some slight pain and scarring at the site of the injection. Inform your doctor if the sore becomes infected.
• Make sure that your baby is not given another injection in the same arm as BCG for at least three months afterwards.

Sinha A, Singh S. Immunization and Immunodeficiency. In: Paul VK, Bagga A, editors. Ghai Essential Pediatrics. 8th ed. New Delhi: CBS Publisher's & Distributors Pvt Ltd.; 2013. pp. 190-91.

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