BCG PF
BCG PF
BCG PF
au
BCG Vaccination
What is BCG?
BCG is a vaccine against tuberculosis (TB). It is named after the two people who discovered the vaccine (Bacillus Calmett-Guerin). It uses a live TB germ that has been modified in the laboratory so that it will not cause disease in a healthy person.
Immediately after the injection a white lump is seen for a few minutes. A red spot / small swelling will appear in 3 4 weeks time. This will develop into a sore, often with pus. A scab forms over the sore, which may take several weeks to heal. A scar usually remains at the site of the injection.
Leave the sore alone and ensure it remains exposed to the air. This helps it to heal quickly. Do not scratch it or disturb the scab. If it is moist, dab gently with surgical spirit as often as required. If there is enough discharge to soil the clothing, place a piece of clean, dry gauze over the sore and secure it with a narrow strip of adhesive plaster on either side, making sure that air can reach the sore Clean with warm water.
What not to do
Do not scratch, squeeze or disturb the sore or scab. Do not apply ointment. Do not apply antiseptics. Do not apply sticking plaster or a tight sealed dressing as these can delay healing.