About the Tuberculosis (BCG) Vaccine
When Should You Get the Tuberculosis Vaccine
Book your appointment at least 8–12 weeks before travelling to regions with high TB risk to ensure your body develops full protection.
Vaccine Schedule
The BCG vaccine is a one-time injection for TB protection. Depending on age and health, a Mantoux test or blood test may be required before vaccination.
Booster Requirements
No booster is required after the initial BCG vaccination for most individuals. However, if you have a weakened immune system or are at high risk, we recommend checking with our healthcare team.
How the Tuberculosis Vaccine Is Given
The BCG vaccine is administered as a single injection, usually in the upper arm. Our trained clinicians will provide the vaccine at our clinic in London.
How Long Does the Tuberculosis Vaccine Last
Protection from the BCG vaccine lasts 10–15 years, but its effectiveness varies depending on age and health conditions.
Possible Side Effects
Mild and temporary side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fever, or swelling may occur. These effects generally subside within a few days.
Who Should Not Have the Tuberculosis Vaccine
The BCG vaccine may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions. Our healthcare professionals will assess your suitability for the vaccine during your consultation.
Risk if You Contract Tuberculosis
If left untreated, tuberculosis (TB) can cause severe lung damage and spread to other organs, including the kidneys, spine, and brain. In some cases, TB can be fatal. Even with treatment, recovery can take several months, and some people may experience long-term complications, such as chronic fatigue or lung damage.
Our London Travel Clinics
We have four central London travel clinics in Liverpool Street, London Bridge, High Street Kensington, and Mayfair, convenient for anyone living or working in the city. We are open early mornings, lunchtimes, evenings, and weekends, providing all essential travel vaccinations and medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tuberculosis (BCG) Vaccine
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Common symptoms of tuberculosis include a persistent cough, weight loss, fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for testing and diagnosis.
TB is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It spreads through airborne droplets when someone with active TB coughs or sneezes, particularly after prolonged exposure.
TB is most commonly transmitted through the air when a person with active TB coughs or sneezes. The risk of transmission is higher with prolonged close contact with an infected individual.
The first sign of tuberculosis is typically a persistent cough that lasts for several weeks. Other early signs can include fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.
Yes, tuberculosis is curable with a combination of antibiotics. Treatment typically lasts at least six months, and it is important to complete the full course of medication to avoid resistance.
The BCG vaccine is about 70-80% effective in preventing severe forms of TB, such as TB meningitis and miliary TB, especially in children. Its effectiveness in preventing lung TB is less significant, and it is more effective in younger individuals.
The BCG vaccine is recommended for individuals at higher risk of tuberculosis, including those living in or travelling to countries with high TB rates, healthcare workers, and people with close contact with someone with active TB. The vaccine may also be required for visa or occupational purposes, particularly for individuals working abroad or for certain professions in the UK where TB screening or vaccination is mandatory.
Yes. If you are aged 6 years or older, a test is required to check for previous exposure to tuberculosis and existing immunity before receiving the BCG vaccine. This is done using either a blood test or a Mantoux test, where a small amount of fluid is injected into the forearm. You will need to return 48–72 hours later, when our specialist nurses assess the reaction on your arm to determine whether the BCG vaccine is required. If appropriate, the BCG vaccine can be administered immediately after this assessment.
If you have a fever, you should not receive the BCG vaccine. For minor illnesses like a cold or cough without fever, the vaccine may still be given, but this will be assessed by our clinicians during your consultation.
The protection from the BCG vaccine typically lasts for 10-15 years. However, immunity can decline over time, and revaccination is not recommended.
Yes, you can travel after receiving the BCG vaccine, provided that you are well. Immunity to the vaccine may take up to 6 weeks to fully develop, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly if you are traveling to areas with high TB risk.
Yes, the BCG vaccine often leaves a small, flat scar at the injection site. This is a normal reaction and part of the healing process.
The BCG vaccine can be administered with other vaccines, but it is recommended to avoid injections in the same arm for 3 months after receiving the BCG vaccine.
The BCG vaccine is widely regarded as safe. It has been used for many years and has undergone rigorous testing. The vaccine is not infectious and cannot give you TB.
The cost of the initial appointment for the Mantoux test is £105. If the BCG vaccine is required, the vaccination itself costs £75.
If you are pregnant, it’s important to consult with our healthcare professionals before receiving the BCG vaccine. They will assess your individual situation and advise accordingly.
While the BCG vaccine does not offer 100% protection, it is believed to be up to 80% effective at preventing the severe forms of TB, such as TB meningitis and miliary TB, especially in children.
