Beyond Immunity: The Surprising Benefits of Common Vaccinations
Source: PAP | Expert: Prof. Piotr Rzymski (Poznan University of Medical Sciences)
Vaccinations against influenza, RSV, or COVID-19 are primarily associated with preventing infection. However, the latest research indicates a range of indirect effects that can be crucial for overall health.
1. Heart Protection (Cardioprotection)
In seniors, the flu vaccine acts similarly to cardiovascular medications:
- Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke by approximately 30%.
- Reduces the risk of cardiovascular death by nearly one-third.
- Similar protective effects have been observed with pneumococcal vaccinations.
2. Combating Antibiotic Resistance
Fewer viral infections mean fewer secondary bacterial infections and a reduced need for antibiotics:
- Overall reduction in antibiotic use: by an average of 25%.
- In children and adolescents: the demand for these drugs drops by up to 50%.
- In newborns: vaccinating the mother against RSV reduces the need for antibiotics in the child by half during lower respiratory tract infections.
3. "Training" the Immune System
Vaccines stimulate the immune system to operate more efficiently across a broader spectrum (known as "trained immunity"):
- They stimulate NK (Natural Killer) cells and monocytes to respond better to other threats.
- They improve the secretion of interferons, which help the body inhibit the replication of various viruses.
- Consequently, vaccinated individuals often experience milder symptoms during other respiratory infections.
4. Cancer Prevention and Oncological Support
- Lung Cancer: In individuals over 55, regular vaccinations (for at least 4 seasons) reduce the risk of developing lung cancer by up to 75%.
- Protection against recurrence: Vaccinations minimize the risk of "awakening" dormant cancer cells caused by severe inflammation.
- Better survival rates: Studies indicate that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine may improve treatment outcomes and survival in patients with melanoma or non-small cell lung cancer.
5. Protection Against Dementia
Regular annual flu vaccinations can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by up to 60% due to better control of inflammatory responses in the nervous system.
Summary and Availability
The flu is not just a common cold – it is a serious adversary that should not be ignored due to its long-term effects on the body.
- Flu vaccines are free for children, adolescents, and seniors in Poland.
- They can be safely combined with other vaccinations during a single visit.
- The flu season usually lasts until March – it is still worth getting vaccinated.