Giving BCG Vaccines To Children Help Prevent Heavy Tuberculosis
JAKARTA - Giving the BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guearin) vaccine to newborns is an important step in the initial protection of tuberculosis (TBC), especially forms of severe disease.
In countries with high prevalence of TB such as Indonesia, immunization is included in the list of mandatory vaccines that must be given as soon as possible after the baby is born.
According to the Head of the Respirology Coordination Unit of the Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI), Dr. Nastiti Kaswandani, Sp.A, Subsp.Resp(K), the BCG vaccine has been proven for decades to be able to prevent heavy TB types such as millier tuberculosis and tuberculosis meningitis two serious conditions that can cause severe complications to death if not treated quickly.
"BCG has not been able to prevent all types of tuberculosis, such as light pulmonary TB, but its effectiveness in suppressing severe TB cases is very significant," it was clear as quoted by ANTARA.
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He also highlighted findings from South Africa, where when there was a BCG vaccine stock vacuum, heavy TB cases immediately increased. This strengthens the urgency of the importance of this vaccine being given from an early age. Although it does not provide comprehensive protection against all forms of TB, BCG vaccination remains the first important defense line.
Furthermore, Dr. Nastiti explained that currently, a new TB vaccine is being developed which is planned to be given as an addition (booster) at a young age, about 15 years and over.
The goal is not to replace BCG, but to strengthen immunity against tuberculosis, because the protective effect of BCG vaccination given in infants can decrease with age.
In addition to immunization, he also reminded that the baby's immune system needs to be maintained through good nutritional intake, exclusive breastfeeding, and creating a healthy environment free from exposure to cigarette smoke. The combination of the right vaccination and a healthy lifestyle will provide maximum protection against tuberculosis infection at an early age.