Effects of Helminths on Immunization and Disease in Ugandan Children
Author Information
Author(s): Elliott Alison M, Kizza Moses, Quigley Maria A, Ndibazza Juliet, Nampijja Margaret, Muhangi Lawrence, Morison Linda, Namujju Proscovia B, Muwanga Moses, Kabatereine Narcis, Whitworth James AG
Primary Institution: Uganda Virus Research Institute
Hypothesis
Maternal and childhood helminth infections reduce the effectiveness of childhood immunizations and increase susceptibility to viral and bacterial infectious diseases, while reducing the incidence of diseases mediated by poorly-regulated inflammatory responses.
Conclusion
This trial is the first to examine the effects of helminths and their treatment in pregnancy and early childhood on immunological, infectious disease, and allergic disease outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Helminths affect immune responses, potentially impairing vaccine efficacy.
- Over 2 billion people are infected with helminths worldwide.
- Helminth infections may have both detrimental and beneficial effects on health.
Takeaway
The study looks at how worms in pregnant women and young children affect their immune responses and health, and whether treating these worms can help.
Methodology
The trial uses a 2 X 2(x2) factorial design with three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled interventions in pregnant women and their children.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the community's varying exposure to helminths and other confounding factors.
Limitations
The sample size may be insufficient for evaluation of rare outcomes, and results may not be generalizable due to differences in communities.
Participant Demographics
Participants include pregnant women and their children from semiurban, rural, and fishing communities in Uganda.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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