- Why it scarred: The BCG vaccine was administered intradermally (into the skin) rather than into muscle. This method intentionally creates a localized reaction that forms a pustule, then heals into a scar—proof that the vaccine “took.”
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Why some countries stopped: As TB rates declined in some regions, routine BCG vaccination was replaced with targeted vaccination for high-risk groups. In other regions, improved vaccine formulations reduced scarring.
Arm tattoo coverup
If you have this scar, it means you received protection against one of history’s deadliest diseases. That’s not something to hide. It’s something to be grateful for.