Bengaluru: In an effort to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) deaths in Karnataka, health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao Tuesday launched Adult BCG Vaccination Programme in 16 districts.
The initiative is part of Karnataka Tuberculosis-Free Strategy which aims to provide universal treatment for all TB patients.
BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) vaccination has traditionally been given to infants to protect against severe TB. However, recent studies suggest that revaccinating adults, especially high-risk groups, may offer additional protection.
“Research shows BCG revaccination in adults can help reduce TB risk,” said Gundu Rao. “This programme will focus on elderly individuals, people with low BMI, diabetics, smokers, individuals previously treated for TB, household contacts of such patients and immunocompromised individuals.”
The vaccination, to be given free of cost, will be introduced in phases. “BCG vaccine has been effective in preventing TB in children, and studies indicate it can help strengthen immunity in adults as well,” the minister added.
The 16 districts are Kalaburagi, Bidar, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Bengaluru City, Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Belagavi, Chamarajnagar, Chikkamagaluru, Dharwad, Davanagere, Uttara Kannada and Kolar.
Who can get vaccine
1) Those who were treated for TB in last 5 years
2) Close contacts of active tuberculosis patients
3) People with body mass index less than 18
4) People over 60 years of age can get vaccine only once
