Long lasting BCG protection against leprosy.
BACKGROUND
BCG vaccine protects against leprosy.


OBJECTIVE
Estimate BCG protection against leprosy by age by age.


METHODS
A case control study with 226 cases of leprosy and 857 controls. BCG vaccination was ascertained via examination of BCG scars. Protection is presented for three age groups.


RESULTS
BCG protection against leprosy was 86% (95% CI: 77-92%) in the age group 18-29; 54% (95% CI: -37% to 85%) in the age group 30-39 and 32% (95% CI: -3% to 56%) in those aged 40 or more.


CONCLUSIONS
BCG efficacy against leprosy may well last for three decades and possibly even longer. BCG vaccination must have contributed to worldwide reduction in leprosy incidence.
Rodrigues
Laura Cunha
LC
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK. laura.rodrigues@lshtm.ac.uk
Kerr-Pontes
Ligia Regina Sansigolo
LR
Frietas
Max Victor Carioca
MV
Barreto
Maurício Lima
ML
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001500:BCG Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001938:Brazil / Q000453:epidemiology; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007918:Leprosy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009166:Mycobacterium leprae / Q000276:immunology; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014611:Vaccination
D001500:BCG Vaccine