What vaccine leaves scars on the arm from injections?
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
The scars on the arm are from the smallpox vaccine and the BCG vaccine. The smallpox vaccine is a live-virus vaccine made from the vaccinia virus. After injection, it rapidly triggers an immune response in the body, leading to the production of specific antibodies. Clinically, it is primarily used to prevent smallpox. Following vaccination, the drug components stimulate the local skin and mucous membranes.
The scars on the arm are generally left by smallpox or BCG vaccination. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Smallpox Vaccine
The smallpox vaccine is a live viral vaccine made from the vaccinia virus. After injection, it rapidly triggers an immune response in the body, leading to the production of specific antibodies. Clinically, it is primarily used to prevent smallpox. Following vaccination, the drug components stimulate the local skin and mucous membranes, often resulting in pustules and scarring, which leave characteristic marks known as "vaccine scars."
2. BCG Vaccine
The BCG vaccine is a live bacterial vaccine composed of attenuated bovine-type Mycobacterium tuberculosis. After administration, it enhances the activity of macrophages in the body and is mainly used to prevent diseases such as tuberculous meningitis. Following BCG vaccination, localized skin pus formation and ulceration commonly occur, resulting in a scar. Clinically, the presence of such a scar is often used as an indicator of successful vaccination.
After vaccination, it is recommended to strengthen protection of the local skin area—avoid contact with water too early, ensure adequate rest, and avoid excessive fatigue to prevent vaccination failure.
