Hello, everyone. Welcome to Paediatrics with Dr Anand! Today is a beautiful day to share an immense amount of knowledge. The topic of choice for today is the BCG Vaccine — one of the most important vaccines, especially for NEET PG, INI-CET, FMGE, and MBBS students.
Before we dive in, as always, let’s begin with a quote:
“Successful is the one who enjoys his daily routine.”
So shine bright and enjoy your daily learning!
1. What is the Full Form of the BCG Vaccine?
- The full form of BCG is Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine.
(Very important for exam purposes!) - I’ll repeat again — BCG = Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine.
Also Read: INI CET Topper’s Preparation Strategy and Study Plan: Dr. Shashwat Rank 2 in INI-CET May 2025
2. Is BCG a Live or Killed Vaccine?
BCG is a live vaccine.
Other examples of live vaccines include:
- Smallpox
- Chickenpox
- MMR
- OPV
- BCG
Note: Please remember these — frequently asked in exams.
Click Here to Watch: BCG Vaccine Explained in 3 Minutes Must-Know Points for NEET PG, INI-CET, FMGE & MBBS Students
3. Why is It Important to Know if It’s a Live Vaccine?
It’s important because all live vaccines are contraindicated in pregnancy. So since BCG is a live vaccine, it should not be given during pregnancy.
4. What is the Catch-Up Age for the BCG Vaccine?
If you have forgotten to give the BCG vaccine at birth, until what age can it be given?
You can give the BCG vaccine till 1 year of age. So, the catch-up period for BCG is up to one year.
5. Is BCG a Light-Sensitive Vaccine?
Yes! The BCG vaccine is light-sensitive.
That’s why it comes as an amber-colored vaccine, to protect it from light exposure.
6. Form and Diluent of BCG Vaccine
Does the BCG vaccine come in powder or liquid form? It comes in powder form.
Since it’s a powder, it needs a diluent before administration.
👉 The diluent of BCG vaccine is normal saline.
Two important vaccines that come in powder form:
- BCG vaccine – Diluent: Normal saline
- MMR vaccine – Diluent: Distilled water
High-yield facts:
| Question | Answer |
| Full form of BCG | Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine |
| Type | Live vaccine |
| Other live vaccines | Smallpox, Chickenpox, MMR, OPV |
| Contraindicated in pregnancy | Yes |
| Catch-up age | Up to 1 year |
| Light-sensitive | Yes |
| Form | Powder form |
| Diluent | Normal saline |
| MMR diluent | Distilled water |
Conclusion
These are the most important exam-oriented points regarding the BCG vaccine. Please make sure you revise them — they are simple, high-yield, and frequently asked.
Thank you so much for all the love and support! Every video and lesson is going to be mind-blowing, and remember —Life is beautiful. Keep learning, keep shining!
Also Read: INI-CET November 2025: The Final Days That Can Redefine Your Preparation
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