“As a year like no other ends, we begin to look forward to 2021 and the possibilities ahead.  At the start of 2020, we were focused on the Phase II clinical trial using the BCG vaccine in adults with established type 1 diabetes.  We were also planning for the Expanded Access program and a long anticipated pediatric clinical trial.  All of these steps are underway and our commitments to type 1 diabetes will never waiver, but COVID-19 has created a new challenge and amazing opportunities for the type 1 diabetic community.

“In 2013, we started a working group of BCG researchers around the globe to collaborate and share information on the BCG vaccine and its potential to treat diseases beyond its original purpose of preventing tuberculosis.  At the time, we were excited about autoimmunity and allergies, but were also interested in how BCG interacts with the immune system and benefits diverse immune responses.  As the COVID-19 epidemic spread and past and recent studies began to show a clear trend that BCG-vaccinated populations had protection from infections including perhaps lower rates of mortality for COVID-19, members of our working group sprang into action.  MGH is now one of several BCG working group members conducting COVID-19 prevention trials around the globe.  Here at MGH, we are also investigating if the type 1 diabetics in our ongoing clinical trials who received BCG prior to 2020 have been protected from the symptoms of COVID-19 infection.

“As we look forward to 2021, we need to raise the funds to start the pediatric type 1 diabetes trial and maximize the data from the ongoing trials.  Enclosed please find our new brochure with updates from the lab.  Thank you so much for all of your support!