Postvaccination Adverse Events Following Bacillus Calmette–Guérin Immunization in Adults – A Case Series

A BSTRACT Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine is extensively and safely used in children in over 150 countries to protect against tuberculosis (TB). BCG revaccination is increasingly being considered for the protection of adolescents and adults against TB. BCG is known for its immunomodulatory effects, influencing the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. Most BCG recipients experience the expected self-limiting local injection site reactions (pain, tenderness, erythema, and swelling). A few patients can also experience side effects like Injection site abscess and regional lymphadenopathy. Other adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) include BCG osteitis/osteomyelitis, disseminated BCG infection, and allergic reactions due to vaccination or vasovagal episodes. Despite these side effects, BCG vaccine has an acceptable safety profile in adults. Here, we report a case series of four cases of AEFI following adult BCG vaccine.