What Should I Do If My Baby Wasnt Given the BCG Vaccine at Birth?

For the health of babies, China mandates the administration of vaccines at several stages after birth and during development. The first vaccine, BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin), is typically administered within 24 hours of birth. If, due to various reasons, the parents fail to vaccinate their child with BCG, supplementation can be done within three months of birth. BCG is crucial in preventing tuberculosis in infants.

BCG is generally administered within 24 hours of birth, with the injection site being the lateral deltoid muscle of the upper arm. For infants who have not received BCG and are under 3 months old, supplementation can be done directly. Infants between 3 months and 3 years old require a tuberculin test, and if the result is negative, supplementation can be given. Infants 4 years old and above are no longer eligible for supplementation. It's important to note that infants should not be in contact with tuberculosis patients within 2-3 months after vaccination. If enlarged lymph nodes are observed in the arm on the same side as the injection site, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. During the inoculation period, wrap the injection site with a clean handkerchief when bathing to prevent water splashing.
2. Keep the area clean, avoid scratching with hands, trim nails regularly, and change underwear frequently.
3. Vaccination does not cause systemic reactions. In case of fever or other symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
4. For other preventive injections, use the other arm for inoculation. (It is recommended to visit a formal hospital or prevention center for vaccination.)
5. Three months after vaccination, a positive PPD test indicates the production of antibodies, while a negative result suggests the need for re-vaccination.

BCG is an attenuated live vaccine used to prevent tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can invade various organs throughout the body, primarily affecting the lungs, known as pulmonary tuberculosis. Tuberculosis, also known as consumption and the "white plague", is an ancient infectious disease that has existed since the dawn of humanity. Tuberculous meningitis, a form of extracranial tuberculosis, is a non-suppurative inflammation of the meninges caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, often secondary to miliary tuberculosis or other organic tuberculous lesions. Vaccinating infants with BCG plays a significant role in preventing tuberculosis.