NEW DELHI : Preliminary laboratory studies of the mRNA vaccines by Pfizer and Moderna have shown decreased effectiveness against the double mutant variants discovered in India, the World Health Organization said in a note. This comes on the back of the multilateral agency classifying the mutated virus strain, B.1.617, as a variant of concern. “Preliminary laboratory studies awaiting peer review suggest a limited reduction in neutralization by antibodies; however, real-world impacts may be limited," WHO said in its note. To be sure, while laboratory data suggests these vaccines may see lower effectiveness against the mutant strain, the issue remains inconclusive until studies in real-world settings are conducted. On the other hand, it cited another non-peer reviewed study that showed that Covaxin was largely effective against the mutant strain of the virus.

Source: Mint May 12, 2021 11:59 UTC