Research suggests that the BCG against tuberculosis, which is mandatory in countries like Romania and most of Eastern Europe, trains the immune system to respond to a variety of infections. Over the years, it was observed to sharply reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and cut the neonathal mortality by 40% for low weight babies. Similar results were seen for the elderly. Ten days ago a clinical trial began in the Netherlands that is testing the BCG vaccine on healthcare workers to see if it reduces the time they are unwell due to the coronavirus. MIT wants to start its own clinical trials in Boston. Unfortunately, results won't be available for a few months.
This vaccine could be a reason why Eastern Europe might never see the death rate observed in Western Europe or the US -- if this vaccine significantly reduces the chance of upper respiratory tract infection for the coronavirus as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment