Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious, infectious illness that takes a long time to cure. It’s spread by coughing from those who already have the disease.
Children under five years can be protected from the most harmful forms of TB by getting a free vaccination. This is called the BCG vaccine.
The vaccine does not prevent your child from being infected, but it will reduce the risk of them getting very ill if it’s given to them at the right age.
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The BCG vaccine is available to children under five years old who:
If your child is five or older they are no longer eligible for the vaccine.
Children aged between 6 months and 5 years may need to have a tuberculin skin test first to detect whether they have already been infected with TB. This test is called the Mantoux test.
If your child has to have this test it will be carried out 72 hours before your child gets the vaccine. You’ll receive more information on this test when your child is booked in to get vaccinated.
Information for parents and carers
Information for health professionals
Additional resources
The BCG vaccine is available to children under five years old who:
If your child is five or older they are no longer eligible for the vaccine.
Children aged between 6 months and 5 years may need to have a tuberculin skin test first to detect whether they have already been infected with TB. This test is called the Mantoux test.
If your child has to have this test it will be carried out 72 hours before your child gets the vaccine. You’ll receive more information on this test when your child is booked in to get vaccinated.
Information for parents and carers
Information for health professionals
Additional resources
Last updated 29.3.2022