New mutated strains of SARS-CoV-2 from the UK, South Africa and Brazil may slightly reduce the effectiveness of vaccines, but injections still protect against COVID-19 disease. The potential danger of new forms of coronavirus is reported by scientists at Rockefeller University in New York and other research organizations. Press release posted on MedicalXpress website.
Scientists took blood samples from 20 people who received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine and tested their antibodies against various viral mutations in the laboratory. In some subjects, the activity of antibodies was up to three times lower, depending on the mutation. The main reason for the increase in the genetic diversity of viruses is the high rate of new infections.
New variants of the virus appear to spread more easily, and this could lead to an increase in cases, deaths and hospitalizations. While we cannot say that the available vaccines are outdated, however, mutations do affect the ability of the immune system to recognize and fight the virus.
Earlier this month, Pfizer and researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch said the vaccine remains effective against the N501Y mutation in coronavirus strains found in the UK and South Africa.