About the BCG vaccine
The BCG vaccine protects against tuberculosis, which is also known as TB.
TB is a serious infection that affects the lungs and sometimes other parts of the body, such as the bones, joints and kidneys. It can also cause meningitis. You can find more information about TB on NHS Choices website.
BCG vaccine for babies
In Jersey, BCG vaccination is recommended for babies up to 1 year old who have a parent or grandparent who was born in a country where there's a high rate of TB.
The BCG vaccination is particularly effective in protecting babies and young children against TB meningitis (swelling of the protective coverings around the brain).
Babies who have a parent or grandparent born in a country where there’s a high rate of TB, have an increased chance of coming into contact with TB. Find out which countries have a high rate of TB.
Identifying babies at risk of TB and when the vaccine is offered
During your pregnancy, a midwife will assess if your baby is likely to require BCG vaccination.
If your baby requires BCG vaccination, your midwife will inform the Immunisation Nurse Specialist shortly after your baby is born. The Immunisation Nurse Specialist will send you an appointment in the post to attend the BCG vaccination clinic at the General Hospital. Clinics are held monthly.
If you want to discuss the vaccination, you can email the Immunisation Nurse Specialist or call them on +44 (0) 1534 445790 or 07797 827391.
The BCG vaccination is rarely given to anyone over the age of 16 because it does not work very well in adults. But it's given to adults aged 16 to 35 who are at risk of TB through their work, such as some healthcare workers. You can get more information about BCG vaccine side effects on NHS Choices.
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