Do I need to repeat the BCG vaccine for my child?
Prof HPS Sachdev,
Senior Consultant Pediatrics,
Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research,
New Delhi
Q: I am 33 years old and have a newborn baby who is 4 weeks old now. During her first week, the nurses administered BCG shots on her thighs. But she does not have any bruises or pus formation on the injected area. Since I was not there, I am not sure now if she ever was given BCG shots, because I've seen bruises/puss formation on the injected area in babies. My first son had one too. Is it ok if I ask for another dose of BCG shot for my daughter now?
A:Thigh is a very unusual site and is not recommended for BCG vaccination. If there is no nodule formation with a later scar formation at the site of the injection after a period of two months, then there is a strong possibility that the vaccine has not been effective. In such an instance, one should consider giving another shot but I would strongly recommend the upper arm.