Karnataka initiates Adult BCG vaccination to reduce TB

Karnataka has launched an Adult BCG Vaccination Programme to fight tuberculosis (TB) deaths. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced this initiative on Tuesday. It will be implemented in 16 districts as part of the Karnataka Tuberculosis-Free Strategy. The BCG vaccine has been used for infants to prevent severe TB. Recent studies now show it may also help adults, especially those at higher risk. Minister Rao said, "Research shows BCG revaccination in adults can help reduce TB risk." The programme will target high-risk groups, including the elderly, people with a low body mass index (BMI), diabetics, smokers, and those who have previously been treated for TB. Vaccination will be free and rolled out in phases. The 16 districts included in the programme are Kalaburagi, Bidar, Vijayapura, and others. High-risk individuals eligible for the vaccine include those treated for TB in the past five years, close contacts of active TB patients, and people over 60.