Vaccination against Covid-19: Recent data

Vaccination against Covid-19: Recent data

I. Review of vaccines available against Covid-19

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, many vaccines were developed and approved using various technological platforms. Understanding these differences is critical of assessing their effectiveness, safety and compliance with specific groups of the population.

A. MRNK-Vaccines (Pfizer-Biontech, Moderna):

These vaccines contain the MRNA molecule (matrix ribonucleic acid), which encodes part of the SARS-COV-2 viral protein-chip protein. After administration into the body, cells use MRNA as a template for the synthesis of this protein-chip. This stimulates the immune system to the production of antibodies and T cells specific to the virus.

  • The mechanism of action: MRNA is delivered to cells using lipid nanoparticles that protect it from degradation and facilitate penetration into the cells. After entering the MRNK cage, it is broadcast by ribosomes, creating a viral protein-chip. The cell represents this protein on its surface, which attracts immune cells.
  • Advantages: High efficiency, relatively rapid development and production, is easy to adapt to new virus options (since MRNA can be quickly reprogrammed).
  • Flaws: They require ultranial storage and transportation temperatures (especially Pfizer-Biontech), a relatively high cost, although Moderna demonstrates greater stability at standard temperatures of the refrigerator. Rare side effects, such as myocarditis and pericarditis, were observed, especially in young men.
  • Efficiency: Initially, the effectiveness of more than 90% against the symptomatic infection showed the effectiveness, but the effectiveness decreased over time and with the advent of new options. Boster doses effectively restore protection.
  • Indications: Approved for use in a wide range of people, including children, with some age -related restrictions depending on a particular vaccine. Special recommendations exist for pregnant women and people with weakened immunity.

B. Vector vaccines (Astrazeneca/Oxford, Johnson & Johnson/Janssen):

These vaccines use a modified virus (adenovirus) as a vector for the delivery of the genetic material of the viral protein-chip in cells. Adenovirus, as a rule, is harmless and cannot multiply in the body.

  • The mechanism of action: Adenovirus penetrates into the cells and delivers DNA encoding the protein-chip. The cell uses this DNA for the synthesis of a protein chip, which then stimulates the immune response.
  • Advantages: It is relatively easy to produce and store (do not require ultranial temperatures), a lower cost compared to MRNC-vaccines.
  • Flaws: Efficiency is lower than that of MRNC-vaccines, the potential for the development of immunity to the adenovirus vector (which can reduce the effectiveness of subsequent doses), a rare but serious side effect-thrombocytopenia thrombosis (TTS).
  • Efficiency: They showed the effectiveness of 60% to 80% against symptomatic infection in clinical trials. Boster doses of other vaccines (especially MRNA) improve protection after primary vaccination of vector vaccine.
  • Indications: Approved for use in adults. The use of Astrazeneca/Oxford is limited in some countries due to TTS risk. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen in some countries was used as a single vaccine.

C. Belch subsidiary vaccines (novavax):

These vaccines directly contain the SARS-COV-2 protein-chip produced in the laboratory. The protein-chip mixes with the adjuvant (a substance that enhances the immune response).

  • The mechanism of action: The protein-chip is introduced into the body, where it is recognized by the immune system as an alien. The adjuvant enhances the immune response, stimulating the production of antibodies and T cells.
  • Advantages: A more traditional approach to vaccination (used for many other vaccines), stability at the standard temperatures of the refrigerator, potentially fewer side effects compared to MRNA and vector vaccines.
  • Flaws: A more complex and long-term production process compared to MRNC-vaccines may require more doses to achieve optimal protection.
  • Efficiency: Showed the effectiveness of about 90% against symptomatic infection in clinical trials.
  • Indications: Approved for use in adults.

D. Inactivated vaccines (Sinovac, Sinopharm, Bharat Biotech):

These vaccines contain a killed (inactivated) SARS-COV-2 virus. The virus cannot multiply, but retains its structure, allowing the immune system to recognize it.

  • The mechanism of action: An inactivated virus is introduced into the body, where it is recognized by the immune system. The immune system produces antibodies and T cells specific to the virus.
  • Advantages: Proven technology (used for many other vaccines) is relatively easy to produce.
  • Flaws: Efficiency is lower than that of MRNA and vector vaccines, several doses may be required to achieve optimal protection, the immune response may be less long.
  • Efficiency: The effectiveness of 50% to 80% against symptomatic infection in clinical trials was shown.
  • Indications: Approved for use in a wide range of people, including children, in some countries.

II. Vaccines effectiveness against various Covid-19 options

The emergence of new SARS-COV-2 options, such as Delta and Omicron, significantly influenced the effectiveness of vaccines. It is important to track the latest data on the effectiveness of vaccines against these and other options.

A. Option DELTA:

  • Initial studies have shown that MRNC-vaccines maintain high efficiency against the severe course of the disease, hospitalization and death caused by Delta, although the effectiveness against symptomatic infection has decreased.
  • Vector vaccines have shown less effectiveness against the Delta variant compared to MRNC-vaccines.
  • Booster doses of MRNC-vaccines significantly increased protection against the Delta version.

B. OMICRON option:

  • Omicron has many mutations in a protein-chip, which allows him to partially evade the immune response caused by vaccines.
  • Primary vaccination of MRNC-vaccines provides only limited protection against a symptomatic infection caused by Omicron.
  • Boster doses of MRNC-vaccines significantly increase protection against symptomatic infection, hospitalization and death caused by the Omicron version, although protection is reduced over time.
  • The data indicate that vector and inactivated vaccines provide less protection against the Omicron version, even after a booster dose.

C. Other options:

  • New options for SARS-COV-2 are constantly appearing. Scientists continue to evaluate the effectiveness of vaccines against these new options and develop updated vaccines adapted to specific options.
  • Monitoring data on the effectiveness of vaccines against new options is critical for making reasonable decisions on vaccination and public health.

III. Vaccines safety against Covid-19

The safety of vaccines against the Covid-19 is carefully monitored around the world. Although all vaccines can cause side effects, most of them are light and short -term.

A. General side effects:

  • Pain at the injection site, redness or swelling
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Nausea

These side effects usually last one or two days and pass on their own.

B. Rare but serious side effects:

  • Myocarditis and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle and shell): There are rarely, mainly in young men after MRNC-vaccines. Most cases proceed easily and are allowed independently.
  • Thrombocytopenia thrombosis (TTS): A rare but serious side effect associated with vector vaccines (Astrazeneca/Oxford, Johnson & Johnson/Janssen).
  • Syndrome Giyena-Barre (GBS): A very rare autoimmune disorder, which can be associated with vector vaccines.
  • Anaphylaxis: A serious allergic reaction that can occur after vaccination. Medical institutions are ready to provide emergency care for anaphylaxia.

C. Security Monitoring:

  • There are strict systems for monitoring vaccines, such as Vaers (USA), Yellow Card Scheme (Great Britain) and similar systems in other countries.
  • These systems allow you to identify rare side effects and evaluate real -time vaccines safety.

D. The advantages of vaccination outweigh the risks:

  • Despite the risk of rare side effects, the advantages of vaccination against the Covid-19 significantly outweigh risks.
  • Vaccination reduces the risk of the severe course of the disease, hospitalization, death and long-term Covid-19.

IV. Vaccination recommendations for various population groups

Recommendations for vaccination can vary depending on age, health status and other factors. It is important to follow the recommendations of national healthcare bodies and medical specialists.

A. Children and adolescents:

  • Most national healthcare bodies recommend vaccination against the Covid-19 for children and adolescents.
  • Vaccination reduces the risk of infection, the transfer of the virus and the development of the severe course of the disease in children and adolescents.
  • MRNC-vaccines (Pfizer-Biontech, Moderna) are usually used to vaccinate children and adolescents.
  • The dosage may differ from the dosage for adults.

B. Pregnant women:

  • Pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe COVID-19.
  • Most national healthcare authorities recommend vaccination against the Covid-19 for pregnant women.
  • MRNC-vaccines are considered safe and effective for pregnant women.
  • Vaccination can protect both the mother and the child.

C. Persons with weakened immunity:

  • Persons with weakened immunity are at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and may have a weaker immune response to vaccines.
  • Many national healthcare bodies recommend additional doses of vaccines against Covid-19 for people with weakened immunity.
  • It is important to consult a doctor to obtain individual vaccination recommendations.

D. Older people:

  • Elderly people are at a higher risk of the serious course of the COVID-19.
  • Vaccination is especially important for the elderly.
  • Booster doses of vaccines against Covid-19 are recommended for the elderly to maintain a high level of protection.

E. People with related diseases:

  • People with concomitant diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity, are at a higher risk of severe Covid-19.
  • Vaccination is recommended for people with related diseases.

V. Boster doses of vaccines against Covid-19

Boster doses of vaccines against the Covid-19 have become an important part of the vaccination strategy to maintain a high level of protection against the virus.

A. The rationale for booster doses:

  • The effectiveness of vaccines is reduced over time.
  • The emergence of new variants of the virus, such as Omicron, reduces the effectiveness of primary vaccination.
  • Boster doses increase the level of antibodies and enhance the immune response.

B. Recommendations on booster doses:

  • Recommendations on booster doses can vary depending on the country, age, health status and type of vaccine used for primary vaccination.
  • Most national healthcare bodies recommend booster doses to all adults.
  • The interval between primary vaccination and a booster dose can vary.

C. Types of booster vaccines:

  • The booster dose can be the same vaccine as for primary vaccination (homologous booster dose), or another vaccine (heterological booster dose).
  • The data indicate that heterological booster doses can be even more effective than homologous booster doses.

VI. Vaccination and long-term consequences of Covid-19 (Long Covid)

The growing number of studies indicates that vaccination can reduce the risk of developing long-term conovid-19 (Long Covid).

A. What is Long Covid:

  • Long Covid is a condition in which people preserve the symptoms of COVID-19 for a long time after the initial infection (more than 3 months).
  • Symptoms of Long Covid may include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment, headaches, muscle pain and other problems.

B. Vaccination and Risk Covid:

  • Studies show that vaccination reduces the risk of developing Long Covid.
  • Vaccinated people who are still infected with the Covid-19 are less likely to experience long symptoms.
  • The mechanisms with which vaccination reduces the risk of Long Covid to the end, but may include a faster clearance of the virus and a decrease in inflammation.

C. The effect of vaccination on the existing Long Covid symptoms:

  • Some studies show that vaccination can improve Long Covid symptoms in some people.
  • However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine which patients with Long Covid can get the greatest benefits from vaccination.

VII. Global distribution of vaccines and justice

The uneven distribution of vaccines against the Covid-19 is a serious problem that undermines global efforts to combat pandemia.

A. Inequality in access to vaccines:

  • Countries with a high level of income received most of the world vaccines, while countries with low and medium income countries are experiencing a deficit of vaccines.
  • This inequality leads to higher incidence and mortality from the Covid-19 in countries with a low income.

B. Initiatives to ensure global access to vaccines:

  • Covax is a global initiative aimed at ensuring fair and equal access to vaccines against Covid-19 for all countries.
  • However, Covax was faced with problems such as vaccines deficiency and logistics difficulties.

C. The importance of global solidarity:

  • Global solidarity and cooperation are necessary to ensure a fair distribution of vaccines and the cessation of pandemia.
  • High income countries should share vaccines with low and average income countries.

VIII. Vaccines disinformation and how to deal with it

Disinformation about vaccines against the Covid-19 is distributed on the Internet and on social networks, which undermines confidence in vaccines and reduces the level of vaccination.

A. General myths and misconceptions about vaccines:

  • Vaccines cause autism (this myth has long been refuted).
  • Vaccines change DNA.
  • Vaccines contain microchips.
  • Vaccines are ineffective.
  • Vaccines are dangerous.

B. How to deal with misinformation:

  • Provide accurate and scientifically sound information about vaccines.
  • Use reliable sources of information, such as CDC, WHO and national health authorities.
  • Refute myths and misconceptions about vaccines.
  • Support medical specialists and public opinion leaders who promote vaccination.
  • Report disinformation on social networks.

IX. Development of new vaccines and treatment methods Covid-19

The research and development of new vaccines and treatment methods for COVID-19 continues.

A. New types of vaccines:

  • Nazal vaccines are developed, which are introduced through the nose and can provide more effective protection against infection in the upper respiratory tract.
  • Pancoronaviral vaccines are developed, which can provide protection against various coronaviruses, including SARS-COV-2 and future pandemic coronaviruses.

B. New treatment methods:

  • Antiviral drugs are developed that can stop the reproduction of the virus in the body.
  • Monoclonal antibodies are developed that can neutralize the virus and prevent a severe course of the disease.
  • New methods of treating Long Covid are investigated.

X. Prospects for the future and pandemic lessons

The pandemic of the Covid-19 presented important lessons about the importance of vaccination, public health and global solidarity.

A. The importance of vaccination:

  • Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Vaccination saves life and reduces the load on the healthcare system.

B. The role of public health:

  • Effective public health measures, such as masks, social distance and testing, are important for monitoring the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Investments in public health systems are necessary to prepare for future pandemics.

C. The need for global solidarity:

  • Global solidarity and cooperation are necessary to solve global problems, such as pandemia.
  • Countries should work together to provide fair access to vaccines and other resources to combat pandemias.

D. Preparation for future pandemias:

  • It is necessary to invest in the research and development of new vaccines and methods of treating infectious diseases.
  • It is necessary to strengthen monitoring systems and identify new health threats.
  • It is necessary to improve coordination and cooperation between countries for quick and effective response to future pandemia.

XI. Details on specific national vaccination programs (example: Russian Federation)

Consider an example of a Russian vaccination program to illustrate as the principles and data described above are applied in a particular national context.

A. Vaccines used in Russia:

  • Satellite V (GAM-Covid-VAC): Vector vaccine based on human adenoviruses (AD5 and AD26). Developed by the National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology named after N.F. Gamalei.
  • Light satellite: One -component version of the satellite V (AD26). It is used as a booster dose or for primary vaccination (in certain cases).
  • Epivaccoron: Peptide vaccine developed by the State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector”. Contains synthetic peptides imitating epitopes of the viral protein-whip.
  • Kovivovak: The whole -inventive inactivated vaccine, developed by the Federal Scientific Center for Research and the Development of Immunobiological Preparations named after M.P. Chumakova RAS.

B. Priority vaccination groups:

  • Medical workers
  • Teachers
  • Social sector workers
  • Persons over 60 years old
  • Persons with chronic diseases

C. The vaccination process:

  • Vaccination is carried out free of charge in state medical institutions.
  • Registration for vaccination is carried out through the portal of public services or through the registry of the clinic.
  • A medical examination is carried out before vaccination.
  • After vaccination, a vaccination certificate is issued.

D. Data on the efficiency and safety of vaccines in Russia:

  • Data on the effectiveness of satellite V, published in The Lancet magazine, showed the effectiveness of about 91% against the symptomatic Covid-19. Real data also demonstrate high effectiveness against the severe course of the disease and hospitalization.
  • Data on the efficiency and safety of epivaccorons and covivak are limited compared to the satellite V. The criticism was mainly associated with limited data transparency and the volume of clinical tests.
  • Messages about the side effects of vaccines in Russia are collected and analyzed by regulatory authorities. Most side effects are light and short -term.

E. Features of the Russian vaccination program:

  • The emphasis on domestic vaccines.
  • Free vaccination for all citizens.
  • A wide network of vaccination points.
  • Information campaign to promote vaccination.
  • Regular updating of vaccination recommendations taking into account new data and virus options.

F. Problems and challenges:

  • Insufficient level of vaccination of the population (compared with other countries with a high income).
  • Vaccination resistance due to misinformation and distrust of vaccines.
  • Logistic difficulties, especially in remote regions.
  • The need for further studies of the efficiency and safety of Russian vaccines against new virus options.

XII. Immune response to vaccination against Covid-19: detailed analysis

Understanding a complex immune response induced by vaccines against the Covid-19 is crucial for assessing their effectiveness and duration of protection.

A. Humoral immunity (antibodies):

  • Vaccines stimulate the production of neutralizing antibodies, which bind to a viral protein-chip and block its ability to penetrate into the cells.
  • The level of neutralizing antibodies is an important indicator of infection.
  • Various vaccines induce different levels and types of antibodies.
  • The level of antibodies is reduced over time, which is one of the reasons for the need for booster doses.
  • The emergence of new virus options can reduce the effectiveness of existing antibodies.

B. Cellular immunity (T cells):

  • Vaccines stimulate the production of T cells that play an important role in the destruction of infected cells and ensuring long-term immunity.
  • T-cells are divided into two main types: cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells) and T-highpers (CD4+ T cells).
  • CD8+ T cells kill cells infected with virus.
  • CD4+ T cells help B cells produce antibodies and coordinate the immune response.
  • Cellular immunity can be more resistant to new virus options than humoral immunity.
  • Vaccines can induce long-lived T-cells of memory, which provide long-term protection.

C. Inborn immunity:

  • Vaccines can also activate congenital immunity, which is the first line of protection of the body from infection.
  • Congenital immunity includes cells, such as natural killers (NK cells) and macrophages that can quickly respond to the virus.
  • Activation of innate immunity can contribute to the development of an adaptive immune response.

D. Factors affecting the immune response:

  • Age
  • Health state
  • Genetics
  • Vaccine type
  • Dosage of the vaccine
  • The interval between doses
  • The previous Covid-19 infection

E. Methods of measuring the immune response:

  • Analyzes for neutralizing antibodies (for example, PRNT, SVNT)
  • Analyzes for connecting antibodies (for example, ELISA)
  • Testes tests (for example, Elispot, Propoic Citometry)
  • Analyzes for cytokines

XIII. The impact of vaccination on the healthcare system: reduction of hospitalizations and mortality

One of the key advantages of vaccination against the Covid-19 is its ability to reduce the load on the healthcare system by reducing the number of hospitalizations and deaths.

A. Reducing Hospitalizations:

  • Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of the severe course of the COVID-19, which leads to a reduction in the number of hospitalizations.
  • Studies have shown that vaccinated people who are still infected with the Covid-19 are less likely to need hospitalization.
  • Reducing hospitalizations exempts the resources of the healthcare system for other patients.

B. Reducing mortality:

  • Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of death from Covid-19.
  • Studies have shown that vaccinated people who are still infected with the Covid-19 are less likely to die from this disease.
  • Reducing mortality saves life and improves the general health of the population.

C. Influence on the resources of the healthcare system:

  • Vaccination reduces the load on medical personnel, beds in hospitals, IVL devices and other healthcare resources.
  • This allows the healthcare system to cope with other diseases and emergency situations.

D. Economic vaccination benefits:

  • Vaccination brings significant economic benefits by reducing health costs, increasing labor productivity and restoration of the economy.
  • Investments in vaccination are an economically effective way to combat pandemia.

XIV. These and other advanced topics and studies will be supplemented as they appear, ensuring the relevance and informativeness of this resource.

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