A peer review has confirmed that the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine is effective against two variants of the coronavirus, the companies announced Monday.
The review, published in the magazine Nature Medicine, supported the results of a study completed by Pfizer and the University of Texas in late January.
When the study was originally released, BioNTech and Pfizer said the finding suggested that no new vaccine would be needed to combat coronavirus mutations first discovered in the United Kingdom and South Africa.
Nevertheless, the ongoing transformation of the deadly virus necessitates clinical data and constant observation. Experts say it is not a foregone conclusion that vaccines currently in use will continue to be effective against possible new variants of the virus in the future.
Spahn expresses confidence in vaccines
On Monday, German Health Minister Jens Spahn expressed confidence in the effectiveness of all three vaccines approved by the European Union. It followed the South African government’s announcement that it would suspend the planned rollout of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
South Africa justified the decision by pointing out the low efficacy of the vaccine against mild and moderate infection due to the B.1351 variant, which is currently dominant in the country. Spahn stressed that the three EU-approved vaccines showed high efficacy against serious infections.
Germany is changing policy to avoid waste
Spahn also announced a change in Germany’s vaccination policy. Individuals such as health workers and rescuers could jump in line and get shots earlier than expected to avoid spilling vaccines that have already been opened and that need to be used or thrown away at the end of each day.
However, the minister urged those “with political responsibility to lead by example” by patiently waiting their turn. The statement came in light of news that some individuals had used the strength of their positions to receive vaccinations despite being in non-risk groups.
Spahn argued that teachers and students would remain low on the list despite talks about reopening schools, and stressed that those most in need – those over 80, and those who work and live in nursing homes – would stay ahead.
js / rt (AFP, Reuters)