(Reuters) – British drug maker AstraZeneca Plc told Reuters on Tuesday that its COVID-19 vaccine should be effective against the new variant of coronavirus, adding that studies are investigating the impact of the mutation.
“AZD1222 (the candidate for the AstraZeneca vaccine) contains the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein, and the changes to the genetic code observed in this new viral strain do not appear to change the structure of the spike protein,” an AstraZeneca representative said in a statement. e-mail.
Drug manufacturers are struggling to test their COVID-19 vaccines against the new variant of the rapid spread of the virus that is unleashing in the UK, the latest challenge in the war to reduce the pandemic.
“By vaccinating with AZD1222, the body’s immune system is trained to recognize many different parts of the spike protein so that it can eliminate the virus if exposed later,” the AstraZeneca representative added.
The mutation known as line B.1.1.7 can be up to 70% more infectious and can be more worrying for children. It has wreaked havoc in Britain, causing a wave of travel bans that disrupt trade with Europe and threaten to further isolate the island’s country.
The AstraZeneca-Oxford shot is considered vital for lower-income and warm-climate countries because it is cheaper, easier to transport and can be stored for long periods of time in normal refrigerator temperatures.
Data from studies conducted by AstraZeneca in the UK and Brazil, published earlier this month, showed that the vaccine was 62% effective for study participants who received two full doses, but 90% for a larger subgroup. small administered half, then a full dose.
Reuters reported late Tuesday that India is likely to approve the AstraZeneca vaccine for emergency use by next week.
Kanishka Singh’s report in Bengaluru; Editing by Leslie Adler and Matthew Lewis