Most women who choose to breastfeed do so to put their child on a path to better health. However, if a breastfeeding mother has to decide whether to become vaccinated against tuberculosis, that could impact her decision to nurse.
TB in the U.S.
There were less than 13,000 new cases of tuberculosis (TB) reported in the United States in 2008, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That rate was a decline of 3.8 percent compared with 2007. While the rate is lowest recorded since national reporting began, new cases are disproportionately affecting foreign-born people in the U.S. and different racial and ethnic populations.
Risk factors
Anyone can get tuberculosis, but there are risk factors which increase the chance. These include: lowered immunity; close contact with a person with infectious TB; age (older adults, especially those who live in nursing homes); malnutrition; and country of origin (regions with high rates of TB, such as sub-Saharan Africa, India, and China).
Is the vaccine safe while breastfeeding?
According the CDC, no data exists concerning the safety of this vaccine during breastfeeding. This means that the vaccine should not be given unless considered essential by your doctor.
Weighing options
Given the current rates of this disease, there is no reason to presume one needs the vaccine. The CDC states that BCG vaccination "should only be considered for children who have a negative tuberculin skin test and who are continually exposed, and cannot be separated from the exposure..." The CDC also says "health care workers should be considered on an individual basis." If you are planning to visit a country with a higher incidence, or have been in close contact with a person who has infectious tuberculosis, seek the advice of a medical professional.
Choosing the vaccine
If your medical provider and you agree that the vaccine is a good choice for your circumstances, stay in touch and let your child's doctor know as well. Just as there is no evidence of safety, there is no evidence of risk; it is best to remain observant following the introduction of the vaccine to your nursing relationship.
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