Discharge without consequences. Scientists developed a vaccine against bacteria living in hospitals

We’ve all heard stories of people being hospitalized and getting another infection instead of recovering. This is a serious problem, especially when it comes to some bacteria that are resistant to many drugs. But perhaps in the near future we will be able to receive a vaccine that will protect us from some of these unpleasant microorganisms when we are hospitalized. New Atlas writes that researchers from the University of Southern California are working on such a solution to this serious problem.

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Infections caught in hospitals are not uncommon. Imagine; Hospitals are full of sick patients. Bacteria living in such environments often become resistant to drugs due to their constant exposure. These superbugs then spread to new patients with the help of doctors, medical instruments and other means because it is simply unrealistic to monitor every millimeter of an undisinfected surface. The result is difficult-to-treat infections that can be very dangerous, especially for people who are already sick or have a weakened immune system.

Traditionally, vaccines work by training our immune system to recognize and attack specific invaders. But scientists at the University of Southern California took a unique approach. Instead of preparing the body to fight a specific microorganism, they developed a vaccine that would boost the part of our immune system called the innate immune system. This system specifically sends out cells called macrophages to find and destroy invaders such as bacteria or fungi.

Brian Luna, one of the authors of the study, explained that if they didn’t use this broad approach, they would need more than one vaccine to protect against all the different infections hospital patients could get.

So have scientists managed to create a universal vaccine? It showed promising results when tested on mice. The number of macrophages in their blood increased and they were protected from infections caused by some common fungi as well as some known bacteria. It turns out that one dose of this vaccine begins to work within a day and can last almost a month. Moreover, the vaccine contains ingredients that are already approved for use in humans. This could greatly accelerate the start of human trials.

What does this mean for us? If tested successfully, this vaccine could significantly reduce the likelihood of infection in hospital patients. This also means doctors will use antibiotics less, which will slow the rise of drug-resistant bacteria. Now the researchers plan to move on to the next stage, human trials. They hope to soon be one step closer to making hospitals safer for everyone.

Previously Focus He wrote about the discovery of an antibiotic that stood no chance against bacteria. As superbugs grow more powerful, a low-key soil sample in the hands of science may have dealt them a heavy blow from which they may not recover.

Moreover Focus He wrote that scientists have discovered the largest breeding ground for antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospitals. After conducting a detailed study of wastewater in medical institutions, scientists identified places where harmful bacteria invaded.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are having problems, contact an expert.