What does BCG mean in LABORATORY

BCG is a vaccine that helps protect people from tuberculosis. It stands for Bacille Calmette Guerin, which is French for “Calmette-Guerin bacillus”, referring to the bacterium responsible for TB. BCG was developed by Albert Calmette and Camille Guerin in 1921 and has been in use around the world ever since then.

The World Health Organization recommends that all newborn babies receive BCG vaccination to help protect them against TB infection later in life. It's also recommended for anyone who hasn't been previously vaccinated and may be exposed to people carrying TB such as healthcare workers or those living in areas where TB is prevalent.

The BCG vaccine is usually given as an intradermal injection into the skin of the upper arm or shoulder. It only takes a few seconds to administer and does not require special medical tools or equipment. It can also be administered as an oral drops if necessary.

Most people experience no side effects after receiving the vaccine. However some people may experience mild redness, itching, swelling or soreness at the injection site for a few days afterwards. These are normal reactions to the vaccine and should not cause alarm.

Yes - studies have shown that protection from TB provided by one dose of BCG lasts up to 15 years or more, depending on individual circumstances such as age and health status at time of dosing.