Travel vaccine
Tuberculosis (BCG)
The BCG vaccine offers protection against tuberculosis for travellers and others at higher risk of exposure.
What tuberculosis is
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs, though it can involve other parts of the body too. It spreads through the air during close, prolonged contact with someone who has active TB. Symptoms can include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats and weight loss, and they may build up gradually over weeks. TB remains common in many parts of the world, which makes it a relevant consideration for some travellers.
The BCG vaccine
BCG is the long-established vaccine used to protect against the more serious forms of TB. It is given as a single injection into the skin and usually leaves a small healing sore and, often, a faint scar. Whether BCG is appropriate depends on your travel plans, how long you intend to stay and your individual risk, so it is best assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Who should think about it
BCG is most relevant for people planning extended stays or relocation in regions where TB is widespread, or who otherwise face a higher chance of exposure. Short package holidays to low-risk destinations do not usually call for it.
Arrange an assessment
If you think BCG may be relevant for your trip, book a travel consultation at Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road. Call 01270 215837 or visit us in person, and we will assess your risk and advise on whether the vaccine is suitable.
How it spreads
Spread through the air when a person with active TB in their lungs coughs or sneezes; close, prolonged contact raises the risk.
Who should be vaccinated
Travellers planning long stays in countries where TB is common, people moving to live in high-incidence areas, and others at increased risk of exposure.
Vaccination schedule
A single dose given into the skin of the upper arm.
Boosters
Repeat doses are not routinely recommended; one course is generally considered sufficient.
Possible side effects
A small blister or sore at the injection site that heals slowly and may leave a tiny scar; some swelling of nearby glands can occur.
Regions where there is a risk
Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, South-East Asia, Parts of Eastern Europe, Parts of Central and South America.
Tuberculosis (BCG) — frequently asked questions
Who needs the BCG vaccine before travelling?
The BCG vaccine is mainly for people planning long stays of three months or more in countries where TB is common, those moving abroad to live in high-incidence areas, and anyone otherwise at increased risk of close contact with the disease. Short package holidays to low-risk destinations do not usually call for it. We assess your individual risk during a consultation.
How many doses of the BCG vaccine do I need and how is it given?
You need just one dose of the BCG vaccine. It is injected into the skin of the upper arm, rather than into the muscle, which is why it leaves a small raised mark as it heals. A single course is generally considered enough, so a follow-up appointment is not usually required once you have had it.
How long does BCG protection against tuberculosis last?
One BCG course is generally considered sufficient and repeat doses are not routinely recommended. Protection tends to be best in the years after vaccination and can wane gradually over time. Because its value depends on your age and exposure, BCG is offered selectively rather than to every traveller, and we will advise whether it is worthwhile for your circumstances.
How soon before travel should I have the BCG vaccine?
Arrange your BCG vaccine several weeks before you travel where possible. The injection site forms a small blister or sore that heals slowly, so allowing time before departure is sensible. It is also best assessed early, as BCG may need to be spaced from certain other live vaccines. Call us in good time so we can plan your appointments properly.
What are the common side effects of the BCG vaccine?
The most common effect is a small blister or sore at the injection site that heals slowly over several weeks and often leaves a tiny scar. Some people notice mild swelling of the nearby glands under the arm. These reactions are usually minor and settle on their own. We will explain how to care for the site before you leave the pharmacy.
Is the BCG travel vaccine free on the NHS or private?
For travel purposes, BCG is a private vaccine rather than a free NHS travel jab. The NHS offers BCG only to specific at-risk groups in the UK, so most travellers needing it for a trip arrange it privately. Our price for BCG is available on enquiry, as suitability is assessed individually. Call 01270 215837 or visit the pharmacy to discuss it.
How much does the BCG vaccine cost at Crewe Pharmacy?
The price for the BCG vaccine at Crewe Pharmacy is available on enquiry. Because BCG is offered selectively based on your travel plans and individual risk, we confirm cost and suitability together during your consultation. To get a price and check whether the vaccine is right for your trip, call 01270 215837 or call into the pharmacy at 139-141 Nantwich Road.
Which countries have a high risk of tuberculosis?
TB is most common across sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, South-East Asia, parts of Eastern Europe, and parts of Central and South America. Risk is highest for travellers spending extended periods living or working closely with local communities in these regions. We can review your specific destinations and length of stay to advise whether BCG should be considered.