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A peer review confirmed that the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine is effective against two variants of the coronavirus, the companies said on Monday.
The review, which was published in the journal Nature medicine, supported the results of a study carried out by Pfizer and the University of Texas in late January.
When the study was originally published, BioNTech and Pfizer said its discovery suggested that no new vaccine would be needed to fight coronavirus mutations first discovered in the UK and South Africa.
Nevertheless, the continued transformation of the deadly virus makes clinical data and constant observation imperative. Experts say it is not a given that the vaccines currently in use will remain 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. It followed the South African government’s announcement to suspend the planned deployment of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
South Africa justified its decision by pointing to the low efficacy of the vaccine against mild and moderate infections from variant B.1351, which is currently dominant in the country. Spahn pointed out that the three vaccines approved by the EU showed high efficacy against serious infections.
Germany changes policy to avoid waste
Spahn also announced a change in Germany’s vaccination policy. People such as healthcare workers and emergency service personnel would be allowed to jump the line and get vaccinated earlier than scheduled to avoid wasting vaccines that have already been opened and need to be used or thrown away at the end of each day.
The minister, however, urged those “who have a political responsibility to set a good example”, patiently waiting their turn. The statement came in light of news that some people had used the power of their positions to get vaccinated while in safe groups.
Spahn argued that teachers and students would remain at the bottom of the list despite talks about reopening schools, pointing out that those who need it most – those over 80, as well as those who work and live in retirement homes – would remain on the front lines.
js / rt (AFP, Reuters)
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