Karnataka govt launches adult BCG vaccination programme to combat tuberculosis

Bengaluru: The state health department on Tuesday launched an adult vaccination programme against tuberculosis in 16 districts in Karnataka to commemorate World TB Day. This is part of the department's goal to reduce TB-related mortality in the state and make it tuberculosis-free.

The programme will target the elderly aged 60 years and above, people with a body mass index (BMI) less 18.5, diabetics, smokers, immunocompromised people, primary contacts of a TB patient, and those with a history of a TB infection, as they are vulnerable to contracting the infection. They will be administered the BCG or Bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccine to prevent tuberculosis (TB). Traditionally, BCG vaccination is given to infants.

Speaking at the event, state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao observed that, despite medical advancements for the contagious disease, TB is a major public health challenge in India. "TB is preventable and curable, and by strengthening early detection, treatment, and awareness, we can ­eliminate it from our society," he said, emphasising the need for community engagement to eliminate TB in Karnataka.

According to data shared by the minister, in 2024, sputum tests of more than 20 lakh suspected TB patients were conducted and a total of 77,987 patients --- 28,122 patients in the private sector and 49,865 patients in the government sector --- were identified, at least 4.5 per cent of whom have drug-resistant TB.

He urged citizens to come forward and take the vaccine free of cost, to boost their immunity and reduce the risk of contracting TB, without falling prey to misinformation about the vaccine.

Symptoms of tuberculosis

- chronic or bloody cough

- chest pain

- weight loss

- night sweats

- fever and fatigue

Services for TB patients in Karnataka

- Free diagnostic facilities and treatment services across the state.

- 159 New NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) kits for TB detection will be added to the existing diagnostics across the state. District hospitals, taluka hospitals, high-burden CHCs and PHCs are equipped with the kits.

- AI-based and mobile-based detection of TB cases.

- DOTS (Directly Observed Therapy) and patient-centre care initiatives.

- 4,704 Nikshay Mitras (organisations, individuals supporting TB patients) have registered in Karnataka, donating 95,034 nutritional kits to patients.