APPRAISAL OF PROTECTIVE VALUE OF BCG VACCINE

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Abstract
The logical approach to the development and evaluation of a specific immunizing agent against tuberculosis requires not only an understanding of the fundamentals of immunity but an appreciation of the many factors that make such an evaluation difficult. These factors include variations in the biology of the tubercle bacillus, the susceptibility of the host, the pathogenesis of the disease, the degree of exposure, social and economic factors, and an almost universal decline in the morbidity and mortality from tuberculosis. The diversity of opinion as to the part played by these different factors in the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the disease and the existence of two widely separate schools of thought on the role of allergy are proof of the intricacy of the problem. It is our view that the evidence for the development of acquired resistance following primary infection with tubercle bacilli is sound. Increased resistance to reinfection can be