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A just-published study from the UK proposes that the multiple vaccinations
given to British troops during the Gulf War may have contributed,
along with other factors, to the development of the group of unexplained
symptoms often referred to as 'Gulf War Syndrome'. According to
the researchers Among veterans of the Gulf war there is a specific
relation between multiple vaccinations given during deployment and
later ill health. As a result of their findings, the authors stress
that "every effort should be made to maintain routine vaccines
during peacetime", in order to reduce the number of shots given
simultaneously during conflicts.
The theory of multiple vaccinations contributing to 'Gulf War Syndrome'
was first proposed 3 years ago (Lancet June 21, 1997; 349: 1831-1833),
but has been largely dismissed by most authorities.
An accompanying editorial states that the study's results are inconclusive,
but admits that "Vaccinations could have long term, non-specific
effects on immune responses in children and adults, some undesirable,
others beneficial."
British Medical Journal 2000;
320: 1363-1367
British Medical Journal 2000; 320: 1351-1352 (editorial)
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