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BCG and SARS-CoV-2-What Have We Learned?
Jakub Kulesza1, Ewelina Kulesza2, Piotr Koziński3
1Department of Internal Diseases and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lodz, Kniaziewicza 1/5, 91-347 Lodz, Poland.
Vaccines
|October 27, 2022
Summary
The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine may offer nonspecific immune benefits beyond tuberculosis prevention. Research explores its potential impact on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and coronavirus disease (COVID-19), but definitive evidence is lacking.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, used since 1921 for tuberculosis prevention, has shown potential nonspecific beneficial effects on child mortality.
- These nonspecific effects suggest BCG may train innate immunity through epigenetic mechanisms.
- The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has renewed interest in BCG's potential to influence immune responses to unrelated pathogens, including coronaviruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on the BCG vaccine's potential impact on the immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
- To evaluate the hypothesis that BCG vaccination might mitigate the severity and mortality associated with COVID-19.
- To assess the current evidence regarding BCG's efficacy against SARS-CoV-2.
Main Methods:
- Review of numerous retrospective studies and prospective clinical trials.
- Analysis of data investigating the association between BCG vaccination and COVID-19 outcomes.
- Synthesis of findings related to BCG's effect on innate immunity and response to SARS-CoV-2.
Main Results:
- Multiple studies have investigated the BCG vaccine's potential role in COVID-19.
- Evidence suggests BCG may influence immune responses, but its protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 is still under investigation.
- No definitive proof currently exists for BCG's efficacy in preventing or mitigating severe COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- The BCG vaccine's potential nonspecific benefits warrant further investigation in the context of viral pandemics.
- While BCG vaccination is explored for its possible role in combating COVID-19, conclusive evidence of its efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 is currently absent.
- Further research is crucial to determine if BCG can offer protection against severe coronavirus disease.
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