What is the efficacy of BCG vaccine?

What is the efficacy of BCG vaccine?

The widely used Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is the only licensed vaccine against Mycobacterium tuberculosis [2]. Infant BCG vaccination has shown consistently high efficacy of 70%–80% against childhood tuberculosis, namely meningitis and miliary tuberculosis [3].

Is BCG vaccine ineffective?

In the last few years BCG vaccination has covered 97% of the newborns, but in 45% of them this vaccination proves to be low effective since no more than 2- or 3-mm long postvaccination cicatrix disappears by the 2-nd or 3-d year of their lives.

How long does BCG immunity last?

BCG vaccination given to babies and young children provides consistent protection (up to 80%) against severe forms of childhood TB, such as TB meningitis. It can be less effective against TB affecting the lungs in adults. The protection from the BCG vaccine can last up to 15 years.

Does BCG confer lifelong immunity?

The BCG, an old vaccine but the only one against tuberculosis, is more effective than was thought, offering protection for at least 20 years, a new study shows.

Is there a TB vaccine for adults?

BCG vaccine is used to help prevent tuberculosis (TB) in adults and children who have never had this disease and test negative for tuberculosis. BCG vaccine is recommended if you live with or have close contact with someone who is infected with tuberculosis.

Can BCG vaccine be repeated?

There is no proven benefit of repeated BCG vaccination against TB. This also applies to revaccination of BCG-vaccinated individuals who remain negative by subsequent tuberculin testing. In the absence of a scar in children in high-burden countries, BCG vaccination is indicated.

How long is a TB shot good for?

Why are not people who work with children (teachers, school aides, etc.) required to have TB screening more often? Minimum state regulations require TB screening once every 4 years.