Vaccines Given to Newborns in Ghana (BCG for Tuberculosis)

Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine Immunization Schedule:

The BCG vaccine provides partial protection against tuberculosis. While it may not offer full protection against the disease, it is still crucial in protecting children from severe forms of tuberculosis, especially in countries where the disease is prevalent. The vaccine is administered once at birth and is not repeated.

Administration of the BCG vaccine:

The vaccine is given via an injection into the skin of the upper right arm. After the injection, a small swelling appears at the injection site, which is later replaced by an ulcer. The ulcer dries up within six weeks and forms a scar, which remains as a 5mm permanent scar. This represents cell-mediated immunity. The scar is visible from 3 months of age. In the event that a child does not develop a scar, a tuberculin skin test may be conducted at one year of age to determine their level of immunity against tuberculosis.

Possible complications of the BCG vaccine:

Complications arising from the vaccine include prolonged ulceration at the injection site and infections that can affect the lymph nodes in nearby areas. It is important that the vaccination is only administered by trained professionals to prevent complications.

Limitations of the BCG vaccine:

BCG is a live vaccine and therefore, should not be administered to newborns with low immunity at birth, such as those with chronic diseases. Your doctor will inform you if your baby has any such disease at birth.

Prevention of tuberculosis:

Tuberculosis is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium and is prevalent in Ghana. In 2020, there were approximately 44,000 new cases of the disease in Ghana, with 6,600 of those affecting children. While tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs, it can also affect other organs such as the spine, bones, abdomen and brain covering. The disease is transmitted through air droplets and can be difficult to diagnose in children. Administering the BCG vaccine to children at birth provides some protection against the disease. Treatment for tuberculosis involves a well-tested regimen lasting between 6 months to one year.