Expanded programme on immunization (EPI). Immunization schedules in the WHO South-East Asia region, 1995

Area of Science:

• Immunization practices
• Public health
• Pediatric infectious diseases

Background:

• The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is crucial for preventing tuberculosis, particularly in endemic regions.
• Understanding variations in BCG vaccination policies is essential for assessing population immunity and disease control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To delineate the diverse age-based eligibility criteria for BCG vaccination across 10 countries in the South-East Asian Region.
• To provide a clear overview of current BCG administration timelines to inform public health initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A review of national immunization program guidelines and official health ministry documents was conducted.
• Data on BCG vaccination age ranges were extracted and systematically categorized by country.

Main Results:

• BCG is administered at birth up to one week in Bangladesh, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, and Nepal.
• In Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand, BCG is given from birth up to one year.
• Maldives offers BCG up to three years, and Sri Lanka up to five years of age.

Conclusions:

• Significant heterogeneity exists in BCG vaccination age eligibility across South-East Asian countries.
• These variations may impact the effectiveness of BCG in different national contexts and require tailored public health approaches.