On the Day of BCG Vaccination – What can you expect? You will only be given the vaccination only if you have had a “NEGATIVE MANTOUX TEST”. On the day of vaccination you should inform your doctor or practice nurse if you are suffering from a fever, have a skin infection or think you might be sensitive to any of the components in the vaccine. BCG vaccination is given as a single injection to the upper left arm. If you put your hand on your hip so the arm is at a 45 degree angle, this will help the nurse administering it. As the injection is given, your skin will be stretched slightly and the vaccine injected “intradermally” just under the skin. Intradermal means that the needle is usually visible under the skin as the injection is given. The injection is given slowly and after it is done you will see a small raised area known as a “blanched bleb” on the skin. After the vaccination a small red spot usually develops within 2-6 weeks. After a few weeks the spot usually becomes scaly, crusting and with slight bruising. This will eventually heal to form a round flat scar. It is better if you leave the injection site uncovered as this will aid in the healing. In some cases a small shallow ulcer appears. In the rare situation that a reaction occurs medical advice should be sought from your doctor or practice nurse as soon as possible. No other vaccinations should be given in the same arm as the BCG injection for up to 3 months. If other ‘live’ vaccines such as Yellow Fever are required, they should be given at the same time as the BCG vaccination or 4 weeks before or after its administration.
Posted on: Mon, 29 Jul 2013 21:55:03 +0000
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