Improving the selective neonatal BCG program.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the work was to develop and implement an improved selective neonatal Bacille-Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine program in which neonates are systematically assessed, and those identified as at "high risk of being exposed to tuberculosis" are given neonatal BCG.


METHODS
Service models used in other parts of the country were assessed and their limitations and difficulties were carefully considered. Possible service models for local use were then considered. A selective neonatal BCG program involving universal neonatal screening was implemented.


METHODS
A program was implemented offering BCG to high-risk neonates.


RESULTS
As has been the case with other health trusts, developing a new neonatal BCG service met with obstacles and hurdles. Means of overcoming some of the difficulties are presented. Preliminary findings regarding the service model, including neonatal BCG uptake rates, were positive.


CONCLUSIONS
A successful neonatal BCG program was implemented.
Wroe
Abigail L
AL
Bromley NHS Primary Care Trust, Bromley, Kent, U.K. abigailwroe@hotmail.com
McKeever
Charmian
C
Thackray
Sue
S
Bhan
Angela
A
D001500:BCG Vaccine; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009161:Mycobacterium / Q000276:immunology; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018579:Patient Selection; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006113:United Kingdom
D001500:BCG Vaccine