Tubervac Injection

About

Tubervac Injection is a vaccine containing attenuated (weakened) live bacteria, specifically a strain of Mycobacterium bovis, known as Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). It is primarily used to provide active immunization against tuberculosis, particularly severe forms like miliary TB and TB meningitis, especially in infants and young children in regions with high TB prevalence. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to develop protective antibodies and cellular immunity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis. It does not prevent infection entirely but significantly reduces the risk of developing severe, life-threatening forms of the disease. This immunization is a critical public health tool in areas where tuberculosis remains a significant health burden, contributing to the reduction of childhood mortality and morbidity associated with the disease.

Uses

• Prevention of severe forms of tuberculosis (e.g., miliary TB, TB meningitis).
• Immunization of infants and young children in high-prevalence areas.
• Protection against leprosy in some populations.
• Part of national immunization programs in endemic regions.

Directions For Use

Administered intradermally, usually into the deltoid region of the upper arm, by a trained healthcare professional.

Benefits

• Effective against severe forms of TB in children.
• Long-lasting immunity.
• Reduces childhood mortality from TB.
• Part of established public health programs.
• May offer some protection against leprosy.
• Safe and well-tolerated in most recipients.

Side Effects

• Local redness and swelling at injection site
• Pain at injection site
• Ulceration at injection site (normal reaction)
• Scar formation (normal reaction)
• Axillary lymphadenopathy (swelling of lymph nodes)
• Fever (mild)
• Headache
• Malaise
• Abscess formation (rare)
• Disseminated BCG infection (very rare, in immunocompromised)
• Keloid formation (rare)
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - No specific interaction with alcohol; however, avoid alcohol consumption if feeling unwell post-vaccination.
• Pregnancy - Generally not recommended during pregnancy due to it being a live vaccine; consult a doctor.
• Breastfeeding - Can be given to breastfeeding mothers; no known adverse effects on the infant.
• Liver - No specific contraindications related to liver conditions.
• Kidney - No specific contraindications related to kidney conditions.
• Lung - Not to be given to individuals with active tuberculosis or severe respiratory illness; assess for underlying lung conditions.

Disclaimer

MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.

Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.