Tuesday, April 12, 2005

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Live (Systemic)

BCG: An effective immunization against tuberculosis. BCG stands for Bacille Calmette Guérin. BCG is a weakened (attenuated) version of a bacteria called Mycobacterium bovis which is closely related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the agent responsible for tuberculosis.

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (Ba-SIL'es Kal-met Geh-rin) (BCG) vaccine is given by injection to help prevent tuberculosis (TB). TB is a serious disease that can cause severe illness. It is spread by close contact with people who already have TB, such as people living in the same house. Some infected people do not appear to be sick, but they can still spread TB to others. BCG vaccine does not provide 100% protection. Therefore it is important to avoid people with TB, even if you have received the vaccine.

BCG vaccine is to be administered only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor. It is available in the following dosage forms:
Parenteral
Multiple-puncture device (U.S.)
Injection (Canada)

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