In India, the BCG vaccination is part of the National Immunisation Schedule. It is recommended to be given right after birth. If your baby has not received it at birth, it can be given later as per the applicable vaccination schedule. It is one of the first vaccinations your baby may receive after birth.
We spoke to Dr Gopal Aggarwal, Director – Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Gurgaon, to understand why BCG vaccination is important, what parents can expect after the injection, and when medical advice may be needed.
He said that this vaccine is particularly important for prevention against severe forms of TB, such as TB meningitis and miliary or disseminated TB. This does not mean that it provides complete protection. However, it can reduce the risk of TB infections to some extent.
What Is the BCG Vaccine?
BCG is a live attenuated vaccine derived from Mycobacterium bovis. It is administered into the skin, usually over the upper arm.The vaccine helps the baby's immune system develop protection against TB. Its strongest protective effect in young children is against severe forms of the disease rather than all forms of TB.
Dr Gopal Aggarwal highlights that parents should understand the importance of vaccination. It only reduces the risk of severe TB. It doesn't provide complete protection against every form of the infection.
When Should Your Baby Get the BCG Vaccine?
In India, BCG vaccination is recommended at birth or as early as possible. Under India's National Immunisation Schedule, it can be given up to one year of age if it was missed earlier.| Age | BCG vaccination |
| At birth | Recommended |
| If missed at birth | Give as early as possible according to the applicable schedule |
| Upper age limit under India's National Immunisation Schedule | Up to 1 year |
BCG vaccination is particularly important in settings where TB is common. However, the vaccine does not guarantee that your child will never develop TB.
What Happens After the BCG Vaccine?
A local skin reaction is common after BCG vaccination and may take some time to appear. You may notice:- A small raised area
- A blister or pustule
- A shallow sore or ulcer
- Crusting
- A small scar
According to Dr Gopal Aggarwal, some babies may also have mild local swelling or discomfort after vaccination. Serious reactions are uncommon.
Parents should avoid squeezing the area or applying creams unless advised by a doctor, as Dr Gopal Aggarwal recommends.
What Are the Side Effects of the BCG Vaccine?
Most babies tolerate BCG vaccination well. Expected local reactions may include:- Mild swelling or redness
- A small pustule or sore
- Crusting as the area heals
- A small scar
- Mild swelling of nearby lymph nodes
- An abscess at the injection site
- Inflammation of lymph nodes nearby the site of injection
- Infection caused by the BCG organism spreading beyond the vaccination site (very rare)
When Should You Consult a Paediatrician?
Speak with your paediatrician if your baby develops:- Large or worsening swelling at the injection site
- A significant or persistent abscess
- Marked swelling of lymph nodes near the vaccination site
- Persistent fever
- Unusual lethargy or illness
- Poor feeding or other concerning symptoms
- A reaction that continues to worsen instead of gradually healing
BCG vaccination is an important part of childhood immunisation in India. Knowing what to expect after the vaccine can help you distinguish a normal local reaction from symptoms that may require medical attention.
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FAQs on BCG Vaccine for Babies: Benefits, Schedule, and Side Effects
- Does every baby develop a scar after the BCG vaccine?
No. Many babies develop a small scar, but its appearance and size can vary. The absence of a visible scar does not necessarily mean that the BCG vaccine was ineffective. - Is it normal for the BCG vaccine site to develop a small sore?
Yes. A small raised area, pustule, sore and subsequent crusting can be part of the normal local response to BCG vaccination. It usually heals naturally and may leave a small scar. - What happens if my baby missed the BCG vaccine at birth?
In India, BCG vaccination can be given up to one year of age under the National Immunisation Schedule. Dr Gopal Aggarwal recommends speaking with your paediatrician, who can advise whether and when catch-up vaccination is appropriate.