Expectations are that a vaccine stops a virus from infecting our bodies

We expect vaccines to protect us from a disease, regardless of whether it is COVID-19 or measles. AstraZeneca published a report today stating that their vaccine, ChAdOx1 nCov-2019, does not protect as expected from COVID-19, but boosts the immune system to offer protection from infection.

Oxford University

https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2020-11-19/astrazeneca-oxford-coronavirus-vaccine-triggers-immune-response-in-adults Today’s release in the medical journal The Lancet explains that the vaccine that both Oxford University and AstraZeneca are developing triggers an immune response rather than the protection expected from a vaccine aimed at coronavirus.

The clinical trials are completing the end of Phase 2. This randomized, placebo-controlled study had 560 adults. All participants received two doses. No adverse side effects were reported.

Study Details

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32466-1/fulltext This link to The Lancet study results is very complete and detailed. I was hoping for this type of data release from the studies released this week from Pfizer and Moderna.

Pfizer had few details about their study. Moderna did offer significantly more. I recommend spending more than a few minutes digesting the material in this link for those who want to dive deep into study results and dynamics.

Immunity vs Protection

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/immune-function-in-older-adults Study data provided by Pfizer and Moderna showed that after their Phase 3 clinical trials that ‘x’ number of people who were vaccinated became infected. The number of infected in the vaccine group was a fraction of those contracting the virus in the placebo group.

The AstraZeneca study did not provide exact details regarding infections in both the placebo and controlled groups but stated that the vaccine did not appear to offer protection from the virus. However, the immune response for the vaccine was robust.

Conclusion

I would want to know more information if a vaccine is 95% (or higher) effective and protects me from the disease. What are the long-term side effects? When would one expect a side effect to become noticeable? What is the risk for those with pre-existing conditions? And, more.

Immunity was described as robust in this article. It stated that the older participants responded very well to the vaccine. Immune system effectiveness declines with age. This vaccine shows promise in building and maintaining an immune response possibly strong enough to make a difference for older patients when in contact with the coronavirus.

Patients with severe COVID-19 complications might benefit from this vaccine since it boosts immune response. I do not know, but it makes sense to me. AstraZeneca and Oxford University plan additional testing.

Live Longer & Enjoy Life! – Red O’Laughlin – RedOLaughlin.com

 

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