BCG vaccination: An update on current Australian practices.

Taylor, Jemma Wittner; Curtis, Nigel; Denholm, Justin

BACKGROUND The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is primarily used to prevent tuberculosis (TB) infection and disease in settings with high TB incidence. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review article is to describe the current uses of BCG vaccination in Australia, including the indications and contraindications, efficacy and other off-target effects, and the role of the general practitioner. DISCUSSION BCG vaccination in Australia is primarily used to prevent TB in neonates and children with a high risk of TB exposure. The BCG vaccine is most effective at preventing severe disseminated TB disease in young children and has variable efficacy in preventing adult disease. The BCG vaccine is usually well tolerated; however, given the small risk of adverse effects, vaccination should be undertaken by a practitioner experienced in its administration. When indicated, the BCG vaccine is available from specialist TB or travel medicine centres.