Vladimir Putin set off alarms by revealing that the Russian Sputnik V vaccine has not yet been applied.
Recent statements by Russian President Vladimir Putin on the age range for the Russian vaccine Sputnik V set off alarms in the world and experts explaining some reasons why there are age group limitations.
At the moment, people between the ages of 18 and 60 can be vaccinated. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday assured that he would be vaccinated against the coronavirus “as far as the sea is concerned,” based on his age range and stressed that the Russian Sputnik V vaccine is “safe and effective.”
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“I listen to the recommendations of the specialists and therefore, I have not done so yet, but it is clear that I will do so as soon as possible,” said the 68-year-old president during his annual press conference.
That vaccine was received with international skepticism at an announcement considered premature, before the start of large-scale clinical trials in human volunteers and the publication of scientific results.
Experts explained to Infobae some reasons why the vaccine cannot be applied to people over 60, among whom the results of phase III which includes older adults have not yet been published.
Russian President Vladimir Putin assured on Thursday that he would be vaccinated against the coronavirus “as far as possible.” Photo AFP
“The vaccine in the Phase III study incorporates older adults which is the phase it releases in the press but which is not published with the data. What Putin said is true, but he should have clarified that these data are still missing, because if this were true, the vaccine would be of no use, “the infectologist Eduardo López told the Argentine media.
Dr. Angela Gentile agreed and stated that “we are waiting for the data and obviously the important thing is that vaccines work in groups that have a higher risk of complexity with this disease.”
Infectologist Roberto Debbag opined that age restriction was convinced of an obstacle. “Vaccines are recommended for people over 65 and for those with comorbidities and health workers who are a priority in this case because they care for patients with COVID-19.”
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All experts agree that it is of utmost importance that Russia publishes information on the latest results.
Sputnik V is a “viral vector” vaccine that uses two transformed adenoviruses (very common viruses, responsible for limitations, among others) to add a portion of the virus responsible for COVID-19.
When the modified adenovirus penetrates the cells of vaccinated people, a typical SARS-CoV-2 protein is made, allowing the immune system to recognize the virus and fight it, as explained by the Gamaleya Center.