A BCG jab is a vaccination primarily used to protect against tuberculosis (TB). It is the only currently available vaccine against TB.
Understanding the BCG Jab
The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains a weakened form of the bacteria that causes TB. This weakened form is Mycobacterium bovis.
Key Aspects of the BCG Vaccine:
- Purpose: Primarily used to prevent tuberculosis, especially severe forms like TB meningitis in children.
- Composition: It contains a live, weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis.
- Development: Developed by Calmette and Guérin and first used in humans in 1921.
- Effectiveness: Most effective in preventing severe forms of TB in children.
- Administration: Usually given as an intradermal injection (injection into the skin).
How the BCG Vaccine Works:
When administered, the BCG vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce a protective response against tuberculosis. It doesn't always prevent TB infection entirely, but it significantly reduces the risk of developing severe forms of the disease, especially in young children.
Additional Information:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Vaccine Type | Live attenuated |
| Target Disease | Tuberculosis (TB) |
| Primary Use | Prevention of severe TB forms, especially in children. |
| Origin | Mycobacterium bovis |
| Developers | Calmette and Guérin |
| First Use | 1921 |
