ToplineModerna will launch a trial for a booster Covid-19 vaccine shot, it said Monday, after tests showed that its vaccine — deemed 95% effective against the most prevalent strains — may produce less robust immunity against the newly discovered, more infectious South African variant of the coronavirus. Moderna CEO, Stephane Bancel has said that the company has "zero concerns" about the vaccine's ... [+] effectiveness but is preparing for a "worst-case scenario." Moderna whose shot has been approved for emergency use in the U.S., the European Union and the U.K., among other places, is the first of the major vaccine makers to announce a trial for a booster against the new variant. Crucial QuoteBancel had previously told Forbes that Moderna was prepared for a situation where new strain may render the company’s vaccine less effective. Last week, South African scientists announced that the virus strain first discovered in their country was 50% more contagious than other strains.

Source: Forbes January 25, 2021 14:48 UTC