Understanding infection risk in people with MS

Infections range from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and throat infections, to pneumonia and flu, . Some research has shown that particularly people with advanced disability or taking certain disease modifying therapies (DMTs) are at higher risk. 

But currently, there’s a lack high-quality data on infections occurring in MS. And there’s no practical guidance on how to reduce this risk. 

About the project   

The researchers will focus on four key parts of the project: 

1. The researchers will use data from an existing registry to study patterns of infection in all people living with MS in Wales (around 6000 people). They’ll then compare them with a similar group from the Welsh population who don’t have MS.
2. The researchers will recruit 200 people with MS plus an adult member of their household as a control participant (or another adult who they have frequent contact with). Each participant will complete a weekly symptom diary for 12 months. 
3. Fifty people with MS, who are at high risk of infection, will perform a nasal swab every fortnight for 6 months, to be tested for common bacteria/viruses. The researchers will use the information to look at the rate and type of infections and risk factors.
4. In collaboration with people with MS and medical experts, the researchers will produce guidance on how to better protect people with MS from infection. 

How will it help people with MS?   

Currently, there’s a lack of data and guidance available to help people with MS reduce their risk of infection. By improving our understanding of the types of infections people with MS experience and the factors that increase their risk, like certain DMTs, we can develop more effective, evidence-based guidance to better protect those living with MS from infections and improve their overall health and wellbeing.