The Influence of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Scar on Infant and Child Mortality: an Evidence-Based Case Review

Abstract

Background

Indonesia is ranked second with the highest number of tuberculosis cases. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunization as prevention to tuberculosis infection, typically forms a BCG-scar within two to five months. Several studies indicate that formed BCG-scar provides protection from non-specific infections and improve mortality rate.

Method

Taken from three large databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct using keywords (“BCG-scar”) AND (“Mortality”) AND (“Children” OR “Infants”). These articles which meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria, evaluated using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools.

Result

Four relevant cohort studies were found and critically reviewed. Three studies showed an association between BCG-scar and mortality to children under one year and one study to children under five years.

Conclusion

BCG-scar serves as a positive indicator of better survival and health. Emphasizes the importance of effective vaccination practices and follow-up in infant health care.