New Delhi: The Delhi government has administered the BCG vaccine to over 50,000 adults as part of a clinical trial to combat tuberculosis (TB) under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP). The trial targets high-risk groups in five districts—New Delhi, North-East, West, East, and South—with six other districts serving as control areas.
The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, traditionally given to newborns, is being tested for its effectiveness in reducing TB cases among adults, particularly those at high risk. Previous studies, such as the Chingleput BCG trial, demonstrated a 36% efficacy over 15 years, indicating the potential benefits of adult vaccination.
The study focuses on vaccinating adults aged 18 and above from high-risk groups, including those who have had TB in the past five years, contacts of TB patients, individuals with a BMI below 18 kg/m², smokers, diabetics, and seniors aged 60 and older. Participants’ health outcomes will be monitored with 14 periodic assessments over three years.
This initiative aligns with India’s National Strategic Plan to eliminate TB by 2025 and is a collaboration between the Delhi Health Department, the Ministry of Health, ICMR, and DHR.
