“We also looked at other infections,” said lead researcher Noelle M. Cocoros. “There are several specific infections, such as hepatitis C, that can also be linked to Parkinson’s. But we didn’t have enough numbers to analyze them.” She does, however, make an important comment: “This is not evidence for a causal relationship between the flu infection and Parkinson’s disease. Our study adds to the broader literature, and we should not exaggerate the results.”
Infection
According to her, this outcome could be an extra incentive for getting the flu shot. “If there is a connection, the shot would reduce the risk. Still, it’s pretty clear that Parkinson’s can be caused by many things. A flu infection is one of many causes.”
Parkinson’s is a disease that originates in the brain. The symptoms range from trembling and stiffness to depression and freezing. It can sometimes take years to be diagnosed. Living in the Netherlands according to ParkinsonNet about 50,000 people with the disease. Worldwide there are no fewer than 10,000,000.
