Link Between Zoster Vaccine and Lower Dementia Risk
A new study found a link between the zoster vaccine and a lower dementia risk, with the vaccine reducing the probability of a new dementia diagnosis by about 20% over the next seven years. The study supports the theory that viruses impacting the nervous system can increase dementia risk.
Key Points
- Study found a significant level of protection against developing dementia with the zoster vaccine.
- Compelling evidence supports two mechanisms in which the vaccine decreases the incidence of dementia.
Pros
- Zoster vaccine reduces the probability of a new dementia diagnosis by about 20% over the next seven years.
- Supports an emerging theory that viruses impacting the nervous system can increase dementia risk.
Cons
- Need for further clinical trials to confirm the link.
- Live-attenuated vaccine is no longer being manufactured in the U.S.