[ad_1]
British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc told Reuters on Tuesday that its COVID-19 vaccine should be effective against the new variant of the coronavirus, adding that studies are underway to fully test the impact of the mutation.
“AZD1222 (AstraZeneca vaccine candidate) contains the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein, and the changes in the genetic code observed in this new viral strain do not appear to change the structure of the spike protein.” AstraZeneca said. Rep said in an email.
Drug makers are scrambling to test their COVID-19 vaccines against the new, fast-spreading variant of the virus that is wreaking havoc in Britain, the latest challenge in the fast-paced race to curb the pandemic.
“Through vaccination with AZD1222, the body’s immune system is able to recognize many different parts of the spike protein, so that it can eliminate the virus if it is later exposed,” added the AstraZeneca representative.
The mutation known as the B.1.1.7 lineage can be up to 70% more infectious and more of a concern to children. It has wreaked havoc in Britain, sparking a wave of travel bans that are disrupting trade with Europe and threatening to further isolate the island country.
AstraZeneca-Oxford injection is considered vital for low-income countries and those in hot climates because it is cheaper, easier to transport, and can be stored for long periods at normal refrigerator temperatures.
Data from AstraZeneca’s late-stage trials in the UK and Brazil published earlier this month showed the vaccine was 62% effective for trial participants who received two full doses, but 90% for a subgroup. smallest who received half and then a full dose.
Reuters reported Tuesday night that India is likely to approve the AstraZeneca vaccine for emergency use next week.
For more news on the new coronavirus, click here.
What you need to know about the coronavirus.
For more information on COVID-19, call the DOH hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150.
The Inquirer Foundation supports our healthcare leaders and still accepts cash donations to be deposited into the Banco de Oro (BDO) checking account # 007960018860 or donate through PayMaya using this link .
Read next
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer and more than 70 other titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to the news, download from 4am and share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
For comments, complaints or inquiries, please contact us.
[ad_2]
