BCG-Associated Complications Following Delayed Vaccination in Infants in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination is essential for preventing severe tuberculosis in early childhood. The BCG vaccine is administered at birth and carries a risk of disseminated disease, especially in immunocompromised infants. To reduce this risk, Saudi Arabia revised its national immunization policy in 2019, postponing BCG vaccination from birth until six months of age.