We continue to do BCG scar checks post vaccination for quality control purposes and so that we can document the presence or absence of a scar. I know that we should not revaccinate someone who has not developed a scar but does anyone re-heaf so that we can have documented evidence of immune status and hence advise re: working with TB patients.
Please comment.
Shirley Fields
OH Manager - Burton NHS
-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Darcy [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 03 December 2003 08:16
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: BCG Vaccinations and TB
Just another minor point. The BCG scar check is not necessarily a reasonable measure of technique and/or response.
Guidance from the British Thoracic Society (2000) suggests that evidence of vaccination should be a sufficient indicator rather than the size of the scar (also see the consultation paper for health clearance for communicable diseases for NHS staff).
You should not re-vaccinate someone who does not develop a scar so checking the vaccine site may lead to some confusion. However, it is worthwhile monitoring the person to check they have not had an excessive response which can lead to serious tissue damage in some cases.
I would be interested to hear from colleagues about how they manage contacts of TB at work (especially in the NHS).
Paul D'Arcy,
Occupational Health Manager (Acting)
Occupational Health
Hammersmith Hospital
Developing And Supporting People To Make Healthcare Better
Direct Line 020 8383 1024
Internal Ext 31024
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