A Comparative Study of AEFI (Adverse Events Following Immunization) in BCG Vaccinated Children at Birth and at 6 Weeks

Background: Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) is not uncommon following BCG vaccination. However, incidence of post vaccination adverse event in relation of time of administration are not elucidated yet in our perspective. Therefore, the study was designed to observe AEFIs following BCG vaccination at birth and at 6 weeks. Methods: This hospital based Comparative observational study was conducted at the EPI center, Department of Paediatrics in Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College & Hospital, for a period of 12 months from January 2019 to December 2019. Child attending in the EPI center for vaccination was approached for inclusion following consenting their parents. Results: Among the child who received BCG vaccination at birth there were 65.3% males and 34.7% were female while at 6 weeks group-male vs female was 57.3 vs 42.7%. No significant difference was noted across the group (p>0.05). Development of redness, ulceration and scarring at inoculation site were almost present in all cases in both groups but these developed earlier who took at 6th week. No incidence of post vaccination abscess, lymphadenitis, osteomyelitis and disseminated BCG disease in both groups. Conclusion: This study found no adverse effects following BCG immunization but redness, ulceration and scarring appeared earlier in 6th week group. However, further studies are needed to establish and use the findings.