Doctors pin hope on BCG vaccines to reduce intensity of Covid-19

New Delhi, Apr 06 (ANI): Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, usually used to prevent Tuberculosis, is now being given to healthcare workers in parts of the world in fight against coronavirus. Top Indian doctors feel that as study around BCG vaccine’s effect on coronavirus continues, there would be evidence suggesting that it could help fight against COVID-19. Speaking to ANI, Cardiologist and Chairman of Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Dr Ashok Seth said, "Six trials have already started of BCG vaccinations being given to health workers taking care of corona patients and to the patients of age more than 60. We have to see whether it prevents or decreases the severity of coronavirus infections.” “One of the effects of BCG apart from its effects on TB is its basic increase in immunity of a person. This immunity enables person to fight infections,” said Rajiv Parakh, Chairman of Medanta’s Peripheral Vascular and Endovascular Sciences. “I think within next 3-4 months there will be some evidence suggesting that BCG vaccines are indeed protective and it is supplementing immunity which could hopefully reduce intensity of COVID-19,” Dr Rajiv Parakh further said.