Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It is a global health concern, and while TB rates in the UK are relatively low, it remains an important issue, particularly in certain communities.

The most effective way to prevent TB is through vaccination. The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine has been used for over 100 years and is one of the most widely used vaccines worldwide. The vaccine is recommended for people who are at high risk of contracting TB, such as healthcare workers, those in close contact with TB patients, and individuals from countries with a high incidence of TB.

In the UK, the BCG vaccine is offered to babies who are at higher risk of contracting TB, such as those born into families where one or more parents or grandparents were born in a country with a high incidence of TB. The vaccine is also offered to some healthcare workers and students who may be at risk of exposure to TB.

If you are interested in receiving the BCG vaccine, you should speak to your GP or local pharmacy. The vaccine is not routinely available to everyone, and eligibility will depend on your individual circumstances. Your GP or pharmacist can advise you on whether the vaccine is appropriate for you and provide further information about the vaccination process.

It is important to remember that the BCG vaccine is not 100% effective in preventing TB, and it does not offer protection against all strains of TB. Therefore, it is important to take other precautions to reduce your risk of contracting TB, such as practicing good hygiene, avoiding close contact with people who have TB, and seeking medical attention if you experience symptoms of TB, such as a persistent cough, chest pain, or fever.