The Ever-Continuing Search For Immunity in Tuberculosis

Abstract

Because of the recognized danger of introducing into human bodies living tubercle bacilli in so-called BCG cultures, revival of the use of dead organisms has occurred during the past few years. Such “vaccines” have never proved efficacious. Although the tuberculin reaction only detects presence of allergy, it continues to be used as a criterion of immunity. Accomplishments by standard methods are erroneously credited to immunizing agents. The propaganda for BCG now seriously threatens the most successful tuberculosis program of all time. Some persons are refusing sanatorium care while others leave institutions thinking their associates can be immunized. Many persons are dubious about supporting the tuberculosis Christmas Seal sale, believing the National Tuberculosis Association will soon be unnecessary. Legislators question appropriations for sanatoriums on the grounds that such institutions soon will be obsolete because of BCG. In some places much of the money so needed for case-finding and sanatorium care is being diverted to BCG programs. To date there is no incontrovertible proof that BCG or any other so-called immunizing agent has been effective in preventing or controlling tuberculosis anywhere. Whenever claims are made for its efficacy, better results are in evidence in similar areas and other nations where it has not been used.