Effectiveness of probiotics for preventing infections in the elderly: Systematic review and meta-analysis - study protocol

Older persons have greater susceptibility to infections than younger adults, with generally more severe and atypical episodes. Probiotics are living microorganisms that confer a health benefit to the host when administered in sufficient quantities. Studies in older people receiving probiotic supplementation suggest a potential role of probiotics in infection prevention. We present a systematic review protocol aimed to assess the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of community acquired infection in elderly people living either in the community or in long-term care facilities. We will include only randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We will comply with the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration and the principles PRISMA Statement. This protocol is registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42014013707).