having a child in Japan

[DoctorP]

Do you have any other complaints against the shot other than the nasty mark? If it does more long-term good for the health of the recipient than cosmetic damage, I would have to say it's irresponsible NOT to get it.

Can you provide reasons to have it?

My wife got it, my daughter didn't.

It is not given in the US. (not required) The only thing I know for sure is that people who do get it will show a positive result on a TB tine skin test. Then they must get an xray to verify that they indeed do not have Turbuculosis. TB is less of a threat in the United States, and because of the
potential risk of side effects from the vaccine, it has not been
included in the recommended guidelines. So while I can not say that your child will not contract TB, I also do not think that the risk of TB is that high to most "mixed" children.

That is my opinion on the matter only.☝

 

[KirinMan]

Can you provide reasons to have it?
My wife got it, my daughter didn't.
It is not given in the US. (not required) The only thing I know for sure is that people who do get it will show a positive result on a TB tine skin test. Then they must get an xray to verify that they indeed do not have Turbuculosis. TB is less of a threat in the United States, and because of the
potential risk of side effects from the vaccine, it has not been
included in the recommended guidelines. So while I can not say that your child will not contract TB, I also do not think that the risk of TB is that high to most "mixed" children.
That is my opinion on the matter only.☝

Dont know if you are aware of this but even here in Okinawa there are people that have TB. It still necessary here.

 

[DoctorP]

It is suggested, but not necessary. I opted for my daughter to not get the shot, but I have her tested regularly for TB.

 

[GaijinPunch]

My son got his BCG shot. The mark is hardly nasty once they get older... my father's small pox vaccination scar is much more noticeable. And, isn't there a nice little TB scare going on in the US w/ that Canadian donut that went traveling on a commercial flight with a highly virulent strain? I've not heard of any complications from the shot.

 

[Mike Cash]

Last I heard it turns out his strain wasn't as bad as they originally made it out to be. Can't count on the media to go around and clean up after itself, though.

 

[KirinMan]

Can't count on the media to go around and clean up after itself, though

If that's the case, and unless you heard from the family itself, how would you know, unless the media provided you with the information. Which btw I heard as well.

I opted for my daughter to not get the shot, but I have her tested regularly for TB.

Of course getting the shot doesnt mean that she will contract the disease, thats for sure. Yet it does give a measure of peace of mind knowing that preventable measures have been taken.

Good for you about testing her regularly. Heaven forbid that she or anyone actually contract the disease.