BCG vaccination for babies and children in Melbourne

The Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) helps protect children against tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is an infection caused by a bacteria (Mycobacterium Tuberculosis).  Worldwide, tuberculosis causes more deaths than any other infectious disease.  It is spread between people by breathing in the bacteria through the air from someone who is infected.  Children and infants are at high risk of becoming unwell following exposure to tuberculosis.   BCG is a routine vaccine in many countries.

According to Australian Government Department of Health recommendations, newborns and children under 5 years of age who will be travelling for extended periods, or living in countries or areas with a high rate of tuberculosis should receive a BCG vaccine. 

Countries with a high rate of tuberculosis include India, Sri Lanka, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Bangladesh and many countries in Africa.  See here for a full list. 

India is a country where there is a higher rate of tuberculosis.  BCG is recommended for children, especially children under 5, following an assessment. 

China is a country where there is a higher rate of tuberculosis.  BCG is recommended for children, especially children under 5, following an assessment. 

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BCG vaccination should ideally occur at least 1 month before departure but preferably longer (3 months or more).  This will allow the body to develop an immune response to provide protection prior to travel.  The BCG may still be recommended within 4 weeks of travel in some circumstances.  Consideration should be given to future travel plans and for BCG to be given at the youngest possible age.  Our doctors can discuss this further with you in an appointment.

BCG can be given from birth until 5 years of age.  In some cases, older children may receive the vaccine according to travel destination and duration.  

BCG vaccine is not as effective in older children and adults. It is not recommended for people in these age groups who are travelling to a country with high tuberculosis incidence, except in some healthcare workers.

A Mantoux test is recommended in some children:

• Children of any age, if they have had previously travel overseas to a high risk country.  

• Had known exposure to someone with TB

Mantoux tests are available at our Parkville clinic.  

BCG can be given at the same time as other vaccines.  Your doctor will discuss options with you. 

BCG should ideally be given at the same time, or 4 weeks apart from other "live-attenuated" vaccines:

• 12- and 18-month-old National Immunisation Program scheduled vaccines (MMR, MMR-V)

• Varicella vaccine

• Yellow fever vaccine

• Japanese Encephalitis vaccine (Imojev)

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No gap is required between "inactivated" vaccines:

• Birth, 2/4/6 month National Immunisation Program vaccines

• Hepatitis A

• Typhoid

• Meningococcal B/Meningococcal ACWY

Paracetamol (Panadol) is not routinely required before BCG.  

Like all vaccines, the BCG vaccine can cause side effects, but they're uncommon and generally mild.  The BCG usually does not cause a fever.​​  Most children develop a sore at the injection site after 2-4 weeks. Once healed, the sore may leave a small scar.

Children should receive the BCG vaccine from an experienced healthcare provider for several reasons:
 

1. Proper Administration: The BCG vaccine requires a specific technique for administration, which involves the injection of the vaccine under the skin, rather than into a muscle. This requires proper training and experience, which we can provide. Improper administration can result in a less effective vaccine, or potentially adverse reactions.
    

2. Accurate Screening: We are experienced in screening for tuberculosis when needed, which is important before administering the BCG vaccine.  Screening ensures that the child is not already infected with TB and that the vaccine is appropriate for their age and health status.
    

3. Tailored Advice: We can also provide tailored advice for parents and caregivers on the risks and benefits of the vaccine, as well as information on how to reduce the risk of TB infection and other health risks when traveling or living in areas where TB is more common.
    

4. Up-to-date Information: Our travel clinic will provide up-to-date information on any changes to BCG vaccine recommendations or availability in different countries, as well as any potential side effects or risks associated with the vaccine.