Bladder Infection Vaccines Show Limited Efficacy, Cost Concerns
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Berlin – Despite the desire for preventative solutions, current vaccines aimed at preventing recurrent bladder infections demonstrate varying degrees of success and carry significant financial burdens for patients, according to a recent assessment of Strovac and Uro-Vaxom. While Strovac,an injection-based vaccine,has shown limited defensive capabilities in studies-even after three injections-Uro-Vaxom presents more promising,though still not definitive,results.
Both treatments are currently not covered by statutory health insurance in Germany, leaving patients to shoulder the full cost. Initial Strovac treatment runs approximately 100 euros, with each booster costing around 50 euros, plus additional expenses for medical visits and the three required injections. Uro-Vaxom’s initial treatment and subsequent boosters also cost around 100 and 50 euros respectively,alongside consultation and examination fees. Total expenses for either treatment can reach up to 200 euros.
Strovac: Questionable Defense
Strovac, administered via three injections spaced one to two weeks apart, has not consistently demonstrated improved protection against pathogens in trials. Common side effects associated with Strovac include localized reactions at the injection site – very common – and hardening at the puncture site. Systemic reactions, though less frequent, can include flu-like symptoms with fever, chills, and body pain, and, rarely, cardiovascular complaints or swelling of the lymph nodes.Very rarely, allergic reactions or neurological symptoms such as numb feelings have been reported.
Uro-Vaxom: More Encouraging Results
URO-Vaxom, an immunotherapeutic taken as a daily capsule for three months, contains cell wall components of various bacterial strains. Expert assessments classify the preparation as “tend to be positive,” citing overview studies indicating a measurable reduction in bladder infections among treated women. Both German and European guidelines recommend Uro-Vaxom for recurring urinary tract infections,with the German guideline suggesting a trial of the preparation before long-term antibiotic treatment,even as a prophylactic measure.
Preventative Measures Remain Key
Experts emphasize that preventative lifestyle measures remain crucial in reducing the risk of bladder inflammation. These include drinking plenty of fluids to flush the urinary tract, staying warm, practicing careful but not excessive intimate hygiene, and urinating after sexual intercourse to eliminate germs.
This article was created after extensive research and does not replace medical advice. In an emergency, you should always consult a doctor or emergency services.
Felix Schneider/gom/stg/news.de
