Pediatria pre prax 4/2023

BCG vaccination. Why, when and how

Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease. It can affect any organ, most often the lungs. The most serious forms of TB include basilar meningitis, spondylitis or miliary TB. The most endangered group are children in the age category up to 5 years. It is a preventable disease. We have known the BCG vaccine, which is the only long-term protection against the disease, for more than 100 years. It provides sufficient protection against severe forms of TB as well as diseases caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria. Since 2012, nationwide vaccination has been canceled. We only vaccinate at-risk groups of children. In the review article, you will learn about the indications, limitations and complications of BCG vaccination.

Keywords: BCG, vaccination, tuberculosis, children