October 26, 2020
07:31
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There are signs that the vaccine from Astrazeneca and Oxford University provides a ‘robust immune response’ in the elderly.
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The British business side Financial Times reports this on the basis of two sources. The vaccine resulted in the production of neutralizing antibodies and T cells in the elderly, according to blood tests.
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The antibodies are needed to recognize and block the invaders, while T cells form a second line of defense and clean up the infected cells.
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It is the first time that information has come out about the immune response of the vaccine in the elderly. Previous studies only involved adults between the ages of 18 and 55. Since the older population is very vulnerable, the results in this subgroup are followed with greater than usual interest.
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However, the information that leaks out through the Financial Times does not say anything about whether or not the individuals in question are protected. It just says that the immune system responds in such a way that we can be hopeful about the ongoing phase 3 study.
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This involves tens of thousands of people, spread across the US, UK and South America, among others. Half of them receive the vaccine, the rest a placebo.
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In the coming weeks, the results will be presented. There must be an answer to all kinds of questions. Does it protect against contamination? Does it reduce the development of the disease? Does it reduce the chance of transmission?
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Astrazeneca is already in full production of the vaccine in anticipation of the crucial phase 3 results, spread over a dozen locations around the world, including one in Wallonia. Astrazeneca is one of the companies with which the European Commission has already concluded a purchase agreement.
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