India’s Vaccine Diplomacy: BCG Support to Afghanistan
Context
India has extended humanitarian assistance by supplying 13 tonnes of Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine along with ancillary medical supplies to Afghanistan’s public health authorities, reinforcing regional health cooperation.
Understanding the BCG Immunisation
Nature:
The BCG vaccine is a live-attenuated vaccine derived from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis. It is the only approved vaccine for protection against Tuberculosis and is routinely administered to infants worldwide.
Historical Background:
Developed by Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin at the Pasteur Institute, the vaccine was first used in humans in 1921 after prolonged research.
Objectives of Immunisation
Primary Goal:
To prevent severe paediatric manifestations such as TB meningitis and miliary TB.
Public Health Role:
To curb TB transmission and reduce disease burden in high-incidence regions.
Additional Benefit:
Provides partial protection against related infections like leprosy and Buruli ulcer.
Constituents and Formulation
Core Component:
Contains a live attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis.
Stabilising Agents:
Includes compounds like glycerol, citrates, and mineral salts to preserve vaccine efficacy.
Storage Form:
Commonly supplied as a freeze-dried (lyophilised) powder, requiring reconstitution before administration.
Mechanism of Action
Immune Activation:
The vaccine stimulates cell-mediated immunity by activating T-lymphocytes.
Protective Response:
Prepares the immune system to rapidly recognise and combat Mycobacterium tuberculosis upon exposure.
Operational Characteristics
Mode of Delivery:
Administered intradermally, typically on the upper arm.
Post-vaccination Marker:
Leads to a characteristic scar at the injection site, indicating successful immunisation.
Target Group:
Primarily given to neonates and young children in TB-endemic countries.
Therapeutic Use:
Also employed in immunotherapy for certain bladder cancers.
Importance in Global Health
Disease Control:
Provides 70–80% protection against severe childhood TB, significantly lowering mortality.
Limitations:
Shows variable efficacy against adult pulmonary TB.
Strategic Relevance:
Acts as a key instrument of health diplomacy, with India leveraging vaccine support to strengthen international partnerships and assist vulnerable healthcare systems.
Conclusion
The continued use of the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine, combined with strengthened public health systems, improved diagnostics, and new vaccine research, remains essential for achieving long-term control of Tuberculosis. India’s proactive vaccine outreach underscores its growing role as a responsible global health partner while advancing collective efforts towards disease elimination.
Source : DD News