What is the BCG vaccine?
Quick Answer
The BCG vaccine protects mainly against severe forms of tuberculosis in children. It is one of the oldest vaccines still in use.
The Full Story
BCG stands for Bacille Calmette-Guérin, named after Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin, who developed it in the early 20th century. It is derived from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis and is used in many countries where tuberculosis is common. BCG is especially good at preventing severe childhood TB, including TB meningitis and disseminated disease, though its protection against adult pulmonary TB is more variable. The vaccine was first used in humans in 1921. It remains one of the most widely administered vaccines in the world.
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