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BCG vaccination
We live in Ireland, where the BCG vaccine isn’t routinely available. Our baby will be 13 months old when we travel to India for a family wedding. We plan to have him vaccinated with BCG shortly after arriving, just a few days before the event.
My question is: How long after receiving the BCG vaccine does protection begin, and will he be at risk attending the wedding if immunity does not kick in?
Answers (7)
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Till 1 year of age
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Hi, before giving the BCG vaccination , a TST or IGRA test is performed to make sure the baby has no latent TB
It takes 2-8 weeks for immunity to start developing after the vaccination
In an enclosed space ,if baby comes in contact with individuals who have TB , yes baby can be at risk.
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Dr. Anjali Maini
Pediatrician
33 yrs exp
Gurgaon
The immune response to BCG will take time - at least 6 - 8 weeks
It’s good to give the BCG vaccine though, even till 5 years of age as per recommendation by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics
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Avoid taking the baby near known case of Tuberculosis ( especially open pulmonary tuberculosis cases of adults), so too it is advisable to keep the child away from crowded places. An open space gathering is safer than closed indoors ones without much ventilation
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Dr. Venkatesh Badugu
Pediatrician
9 yrs exp
Hyderabad
Till 1 year of age
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Dr. Sachin Pariskar
Pediatrician
9 yrs exp
Pune
But bcg vaccination is given till age of 1 year age
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Dr. Bhatt Vivek Prafulchandra
Pediatrician
5 yrs exp
Rajkot
Till age of 1 year
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Dr. Vinit M Mehta
Pediatrician
13 yrs exp
Vadodara
BCG vaccine efficacy is 0 to 80%
So immune response is variable from person to person and not time bound
It protects against severe TB infection
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.