Implementing the new BCG vaccination guidelines - A maternity hospital-based clinic approach

Abstract

Background: With the recent changes to the UK BCG vaccination programme, the emphasis on childhood immunisation changes to identification and immunisation of at risk neonates. We report our experience of improving the system for provision of early BCG immunisation to high-risk infants born in the east of Glasgow. Methods: A maternity hospital-based BCG clinic was established, together with a programme designed to increase awareness among midwifery and junior medical staff. Results: Neonatal identification of at risk infants increased by 300% and was associated with high rates of clinic attendance and a 93% uptake of BCG immunisation in early infancy. Almost all infants were immunised within the first three months of life. Conclusion: Targeting parents prior to discharge from the maternity unit is an effective means of implementing BCG immunisation guidelines. The clinic model described is a successful and easily implemented example of co-operation between acute and community services. © The Author 2006, Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Faculty of Public Health. All rights reserved.