Anjali Reddy Anjali Reddy Asked 4 months ago

What does a tb shot reaction look like?

My younger brother just got his TB shot yesterday. The nurse said to check for a reaction. What should I be looking for on his arm? Will it be red or swollen?

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5 answers

Varun Sharma Varun Sharma Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago
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Don't worry too much, a TB shot reaction is usually pretty mild and normal. You might get a small red bump or a blister at the injection site after a few weeks. Eventually, it forms a small scab and leaves a tiny scar, which is actually a good sign it worked.

Sneha Reddy Sneha Reddy Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

I totally get why you'd be asking this, it's natural to wonder. My friend had a small red lump that looked a bit like a mosquito bite at first, then it formed a small scab. It wasn't painful, just a bit itchy sometimes. Pretty standard stuff.

Amit Kohli Amit Kohli Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

See, for a TB shot (BCG vaccine), a typical reaction is a raised bump that might turn into a small ulcer and then heal, leaving a scar. Don't go looking for home remedies or advice online. If it looks abnormal, like it's spreading or very painful, always, always consult a doctor. Seriously, no WhatsApp forwards.

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Consult a internal medicine specialist

Priya Das Priya Das Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

I'm also trying to understand this. My younger cousin got her shot, and now there's a small red mark. Is it normal for it to take some time to appear, like a few weeks later? Just curious if that's part of the reaction.

Vivek Mehta Vivek Mehta Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

A TB shot reaction usually involves a small, localized swelling or lump at the injection site that gradually changes. It's a common and expected immune response. If you're concerned, don't waste time self-diagnosing, just pop into a clinic for a quick check-up. Doctors are best for these things.

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