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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

BCG vaccine

BCG vaccination offers useful protection against severe forms of tuberculosis, particularly in young children.

What is it?

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection usually affecting the lungs but it can spread elsewhere. It is transmitted through prolonged inhalation of respiratory droplets from someone with infectious pulmonary TB.

Where it may be relevant

  • Infants and children meeting UK risk criteria
  • Previously unvaccinated people with occupational or travel-related exposure after assessment
  • People who may require a tuberculin skin test before vaccination

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

BCG vaccination

Eligible person

Dose 1Day 0

Pre-vaccination testing is required for some ages and exposure histories.

Who may be eligible

  • People meeting age and exposure criteria who do not have evidence of previous BCG or TB infection
  • Those with an appropriate negative pre-vaccination test when testing is required

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
  • Pregnancy and significant immune suppression are contraindications because BCG is live
  • People with previous BCG, active TB or a positive tuberculin test should not be revaccinated routinely

Potential side effects

  • A local papule, ulcer and eventual small scar are expected
  • Temporary local lymph-node swelling can occur
  • Injection-site discomfort

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment
  • Persistent ulceration, abscess, significant lymphadenitis or disseminated BCG infection are uncommon but require assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the BCG vaccine protect against?

It protects particularly against severe childhood forms of tuberculosis.

Who should consider the BCG vaccine?

It is offered selectively according to TB exposure risk rather than routinely to everyone.

How many doses of the BCG vaccine are needed?

BCG is generally a single dose after any required eligibility testing.

Can I have the BCG vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the BCG vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.