Guidance for Preparation and Administration of BCG and tuberculin

In 2015, the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) and the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) both recommended that BCG vaccine does not need to be given to all children in Ireland.

Sine April 2015, there has been no BCG vaccination programme and the HSE cannot recommence the BCG vaccination programme without instruction from the Department of Health. 

In the absence of evidence, the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend BCG vaccination for the prevention of COVID-19.

 

This guidance on the preparation and administration of BCG and tuberculin has been drawn up following consultation with the Health Protection Surveillance Centre and international evidence and best practice.

This guidance should be reviewed following the publication of Irish regulations to comply with the 2013 EU Sharps Directive and when sterile plastic straws for drawing up vaccines are available as an alternative to needles.

  • Dr Brenda Corcoran National Immunisation Office
  • Dr Roswitha Junold, Senior Medical Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster
  • Dr Deirdre Forde, Senior Medical Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster
  • Dr Pasqueline Lyng, Senior Medical Officer, Department of Public Health, Dr Steevens Hospital
  • Dr Ros Quinlan, Senior Medical Officer, Dublin North East
  • Dr Barbara Senior, Area Medical Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster

Instructions for use of Tuberculin safety syringes (updated 27th January 2015)

 

Videos showing the administration of BCG vaccine (Dr Barbara Senior, Area Medical Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster)

Normal Speed Video

Slowed Down Video

 

Presentation - Administration of BCG Vaccine (Dr Barbara Senior, Area Medical Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster)

 This page was updated on 6 September 2018