A peer review has confirmed that the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine is effective against two variants of the coronavirus, the companies announced Monday.
The review, which was published in the journal Nature medicine, supported the results of a study by Pfizer and the University of Texas in late January.
When the study was originally published, BioNTech and Pfizer said their finding suggested that no new vaccine would be needed to fight the coronavirus mutations first discovered in the UK and South Africa.
However, the continuous transformation of the deadly virus makes clinical data and constant observation essential. Experts say it cannot be concluded that the 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 the three vaccines approved by the European Union. This was followed by the announcement by the South African government to suspend the planned launch of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
South Africa justified the decision by noting the low effectiveness of the vaccine against mild to moderate infection resulting from variant B.1351, which is currently dominant in the country. Spahn stressed that the three EU-approved vaccines were highly effective against serious infections.
Germany changes policy to prevent waste
Spahn also announced a change in Germany’s vaccination policy. People such as health workers and emergency service personnel would be allowed to jump in line and receive shots earlier than expected to avoid wasting vaccines that have already been opened and should be used or discarded at the end of each day.
The minister, however, urged those “who have the political responsibility to set a good example”, patiently waiting their turn. The statement came in light of the news that some people had used the power of their positions to get vaccinated despite being in risk-free groups.
Spahn said teachers and students would remain low on the list despite talk of reopening schools, noting that those most in need (those over 80, as well as those who work and live in residences), will remain at the head of the line.
js / rt (AFP, Reuters)