BCG Vaccine Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Age Group (Adults, Pediatrics), By Application (Tuberculosis), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Online Pharmacy), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

BCG Vaccine Market Size & Trends

The global BCG vaccine market size was valued at USD 98.15 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.17% from 2023 to 2030. This can be attributed to the rising prevalence of tuberculosis, technological advancement in vaccine R&D, and increased government initiatives for vaccination campaigns. Tuberculosis ranked 13th in mortality globally, with an anticipated 10.6 million cases in 2021. BCG vaccine prevents military sickness and children's tuberculous meningitis in several countries where tuberculosis is highly prevalent. Hence, many people around the globe have received the BCG vaccination.

A TB specialist should be consulted before administering the BCG vaccination to a very small number of individuals who fulfill certain requirements. However, because of the low risk of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, the vaccine's inconsistent efficacy against adult pulmonary TB, and the possibility of vaccine interference with tuberculin skin test reactivity, BCG is not widely advised for use in countries like the U.S., which may impede market growth.

Furthermore, in low-middle-income countries, homelessness, poverty, and HIV infections are key factors for high tuberculosis cases. BCG vaccination is the only vaccine that can shield against infection from the mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. According to a recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal, healthcare professionals and students who work in high-incidence areas of tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries remain at higher risk of contracting latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI).

As per examination of 85 original publications, 50% of healthcare professionals and almost 32% of healthcare students tested positive for tuberculin skin disease, while 25% and 39%, respectively, tested positive for interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA), a test that indicates latent or active tuberculosis. Thus, an increasing incidence of tuberculosis is anticipated to drive demand for BCG vaccines in the coming years.

Age Group Insights

On the basis of the age group, the market is segmented into adults and pediatrics. The pediatrics segment held the largest market share in 2022. Compared to adults, children are more likely to develop TB, which affects various body areas, and the disease is probably more serious in children.

TB is quite widespread in certain developing countries and some developed countries like the U.S. and the UK have the lowest rates globally. Although tuberculosis is airborne, it is difficult to contract. Thus, an increasing number of children with tuberculosis is anticipated to fuel the demand for pediatric vaccines to prevent TB globally, thereby driving segment growth.

Application Insights

Based on the application, the BCG vaccine market is segmented into bladder cancer and tuberculosis. The tuberculosis segment held the largest market share in 2022. This can be attributed to the rising prevalence of tuberculosis and the high demand for BCG vaccine to prevent TB. For instance, in February 2022, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, released a study titled "India TB Report 2022." The report said pediatric tuberculosis was a severe issue, accounting for around 31% of the worldwide burden. Therefore, vaccination against BCG is expected to rise among the target population due to pediatrics’ growing BCG vaccination rate, which would eventually propel segment expansion.

Distribution Channel Insights

Based on the distribution channel, the BCG vaccine market is segmented into hospital pharmacy, online pharmacy, and retail pharmacy. The retail pharmacy segment held the largest market share in 2022. Chemists can offer advice when managing complicated ailments like tuberculosis and bladder cancer.

Additionally, they could provide general guidance on fitness, stress management, and food, which helps to attract and maintain new and old product buyers. All these factors drive the growth of the retail pharmacy segment.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2022. This can be attributed to a rise in TB cases, an increase in the number of immunization programs, and the participation of most major players in developing and offering new BCG vaccines. Additionally, the availability of state-of-the-art medical facilities staffed by qualified medical personnel and a spike in government funding for the healthcare system were all cited as contributing factors. Growing vulnerability to the disease because of homelessness and poverty and a rise in the number of children receiving the BCG vaccine are some other factors driving the market growth in developing countries such as India and China.

Competitive Insights

Key players operating in the market are Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Microgen, Merck & Co., Inc., Japan BCG Laboratory, and AJ Biologics Sdn Bhd. The market participants persistently work towards new product launches, collaborations, M&A activities, and other strategic alliances to gain new market avenues.

The following are some instances of strategic initiatives:

• In January 2023, the WHO planned to launch a new “TB Vaccine Accelerator Council”. This committee will assist in authorizing and using effective novel TB vaccines, speeding high-level coalition between global agencies, funders, end users, and governments in finding and tackling challenges that arise in tuberculosis vaccine development like BCG.

• In March 2022, the Drugs Controller General of India received a plea from the Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd regarding the emergency use of authorization for its recombinant BCG vaccine to prevent TB. This vaccine's approval will positively impact the BCG vaccine market over the forecast period.