I heard that scientists developed the world's first vaccine against birch pollen allergy. I'd like to know how it differs from regular medications and when it will be available at clinics?
It really is being developed, but I'm not totally sure about the details. Allergy vaccines are fundamentally different from regular medications in that they don't just suppress symptoms - they try to "retrain" your immune system. Instead of panicking at birch pollen, your body gradually gets used to it and stops attacking it. Regular pills and sprays are more of a way to get through the season, but a vaccine could give you long-term results.
As for when it'll show up at clinics - I don't know exact dates on that one, because development usually takes longer than it seems. You have to go through all the stages of clinical trials, get approval from regulators, set up production. Maybe this year or next they'll start using it in hospitals or specialized centers, but it won't be showing up at regular clinics anytime soon. If this is something that bothers you, it's worth keeping an eye on the news from relevant sources or asking your allergist whether they can recommend something newer from what's already available.
Log into answer.
