New research suggests that routine vaccines may help prevent dementia by reducing the risk of neuroinflammation caused by viral infections. A study of over 130 million people found that four vaccines – hepatitis A, typhoid, combined hepatitis A and typhoid vaccine, and diphtheria – were associated with a lower risk of dementia.
The study builds on previous research showing that vaccines such as the influenza vaccine can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, which is the leading cause of dementia. Viral infections like COVID-19, shingles, and herpes simplex virus type 1 (that causes cold sores) have also been linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers believe that preventing and reducing the severity of viral or bacterial infections with immunisation may help reduce brain inflammation, which can trigger chemicals that damage brain cells and lead to cognitive impairment. This could potentially provide long-term benefits for our immune system.
The study also suggests that anti-inflammatory medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, could potentially protect against memory decline. The findings have important implications for the prevention and treatment of dementia, highlighting the potential role of vaccines in reducing the risk of this devastating disease.
Source: https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/routine-vaccines-could-prevent-dementia-heres-how