BCG vaccine

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is primarily used to protect against tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. Developed from a weakened strain of the bacteria that causes TB, the vaccine stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight the infection. It is particularly effective in preventing severe forms of TB in children. The BCG vaccine is usually given shortly after birth in countries where TB is common. While it does not guarantee complete protection, it significantly reduces the risk of infection and serious complications related to tuberculosis.