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Endemic and with epidemic outbreaks during the winter months, the new coronavirus is expected to develop, as in the coming months it is expected to be eradicated from only a few countries, while its presence in other countries will continue. And the longer its presence lasts, the more it will mutate.
This is the conclusion of an article on COVID – 19 in 2021 in the scientific journal JAMA, which states that the uncertainty of the pandemic virus will continue, until fully informed answers are given to all the questions that have arisen from the pandemic.
The article has compiled the main questions that arise and offers the most scientifically based answers, so far, on these topics.
Which vaccine is better and how should it be administered?
The answer here is that, given the limited number of doses available, everyone should receive whatever vaccine is available for them when it is their turn. But in the next stage, with larger amounts of vaccines, a single-dose vaccine is proposed for those who cannot return for a second dose to the health services in their area.
Do vaccines protect against infection and prevent transmission?
Stopping the infection and transmission of the virus from vaccines is considered essential to stop the pandemic, but this has not yet been clearly demonstrated, as the reduction in infections can be attributed to other factors. Vaccines generally provide such protection, but the extent of protection provided is not yet known.
How are questions about vaccination best dealt with?
Providing information on how the new adenovirus or mRNA vector technology works, explaining that it does not affect the human genetic code, as well as addressing misinformation and conspiracy theories. It is also necessary to address concerns about the insecurity of the population towards the health system, due to previous abuse during their care.
Are vaccines effective against new mutations?
As the coronavirus continues to spread, mutations will occur and new variants will appear. Among the predominant variants on the market, mRNA vaccines have been found to treat the British mutation but are less effective at the South African mutation, as was the case with the Novavax test vaccine, reducing its effectiveness from 89% to 60%. (We note that according to the specifications of the World Health Organization, the efficiency limit has been set at 50%).
How long is the interval between doses? Can the doses be mixed?
For the Pfizer vaccine, the maximum time to the second dose is set at 6 weeks instead of the 12 decided by the UK to increase the number of people vaccinated. The concern here is the possibility of developing new variants. There is no data on whether someone who has given the first dose of one vaccine can receive a second dose of another vaccine, so the recommendations are for the second dose of the same vaccine.
What if someone only takes one dose?
There is no relevant recommendation, even if you have a pre-existing infection with the virus. Before vaccination, the level of antibodies to the natural disease should be monitored. In any case, until clear data are available, both doses are recommended.
How long does immunity last?
Vaccines develop several mechanisms of protection against infection. The first is antibodies, the second mechanism is the growth of memory T cells. It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving office.
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