Just one f lu jab may reduce dementia risk

FLU vaccines could reduce the chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease, research suggests.

A study of 9,000 people found those who had only one flu jab were 17 per cent less likely to have Alzheimer’s than those who had never been vaccinated.

And those who received their flu jab every year saw their risk reduce by a further 13 per cent.

Experts last night described the finding as ‘intriguing’ – but were left puzzled as to exactly how vaccination against influenza reduces the risk of dementia.

Some believe that the jab may help boost the body’s general immune system – offering the brain some protection when it is vulnerable to decline.

There is also a possibility that a major infection such as a bad bout of the flu may hasten the onset of dementia among those who are already at risk.

Doctors stress anyone at risk of dementia – especially the elderly – should get vaccinated against flu regardless of this study.

Albert Amran, of McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas, who led the US study, said the younger someone is when they first receive a flu vaccination, the greater the protection against dementia. Presenting his research via videolink to the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, he said: ‘Our study suggests that regular use of a relatively cheap intervention – the flu shot – may significantly reduce risk of Alzheimer’s dementia.

‘More research is needed to explore the biological mechanism for this effect – why and how it works in the body.’

Dr Rosa Sancho, of Alzheimer’s

Research UK, said: ‘A link between having a seasonal flu vaccine and reduced dementia risk is intriguing and this study indicates there is a beneficial impact of having one flu vaccination on dementia risk. Understanding why a seasonal flu vaccine is linked to reduced dementia risk is an important avenue for further research.

‘This research does not mean Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the common flu and there are potential non-biological explanations for this association, such as people who get the flu vaccine being more likely to take other steps to protect their health.’

Dr Maria Carrillo of the Alzheimer’s Association said: ‘It may turn out to be as simple as if you’re taking care of your health in this way – getting vaccinated – you’re also taking care of yourself in other ways, and these things add up to lower risk of Alzheimer’s.’