Scientific theory holds that early exposure to infections strengthens the immune system and makes it stronger against certain diseases. The latest discovery by Italian researchers supports this point. A vaccine to prevent tuberculosis would have the ability to prevent the development of multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that affects the brain or spinal cord, causing problems with movement, balance and vision.
The first signs manifested by a feeling of numbness, visual disturbances and tingling or even paralysis. Half of those affected by the first symptoms develop the disease within two years, while 10% have no complications.
In the Italian experience, reported in the scientific journal Neurology, 33 people with the first symptoms of the disease received an injection of the anti-tuberculosis vaccine. 40 other patients received a placebo.
Research to continue
After five years, 30% of those given a placebo did not develop multiple sclerosis, compared to 53% of those vaccinated against tuberculosis.
This study was too small to conclude that the tuberculosis vaccine is really effective in preventing MS. But the researchers say they are confident. “These results are promising, but more research is needed to learn more about the safety and the long-term effects of this vaccine”, explains Dr. Giovanni Ristori, director of the study, quoted by the BBC.
