Category: Coronavirus

COVID-19 Immunity – How Long Does It Last Following the Infection and Immunization?

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Immunization Overview

The human immune system is a complicated network of cells and proteins that defends the body against foreign invaders, including viruses and bacteria. In this post, we look at how the immune system responds to the COVID-19 virus.

Since this disease is relatively new, there is a lot that we still need to learn about and several questions remain regarding the immunity to the virus, both following the infection and immunization and so the research continues. One factor that is accepted throughout the world is that those who have strong immune systems fare better than those that are immune-compromised and/or are part of the elderly community.

It is important to note that natural immunity refers to how your natural immune system responds following the infection, whereas vaccine-induced immunity is the process by which a COVID injection stimulates your immune system to produce more antibodies – enough to prepare your body to resist the virus should you get infected.

Here, we look at how the immune system works against COVID-19 and how the immune system responds following the infection and vaccination. 

How Long Does COVID-19 Immunity Last Following the Infection?

Man unsure about taking the vaccine
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This is a very good question and there has not been a definitive answer; however, researchers believe it could be anywhere from between three to eight months.

The claim is based on several pieces of research performed to analyze the antibodies in individuals who were infected by the virus. However, the results of these studies vary significantly as the life of antibodies targeting the spike of SARS-CoV-2 varies from individual to individual. Moreover, other factors besides antibodies, such as T and B cell memory, affect the natural immunity against COVID-19. 

As of now, they suggest booster shots after six months of being vaccinated. Since COVID-19 is a relatively new disease, researchers worldwide are continuing their quest to find out how long the body defends itself against the disease.

It cannot be definitively concluded how COVID-19 immunity lasts following the infection, but let’s look at each of the components that can affect the natural immunity against COVID-19. 

Antibodies – How Long Do They Stay in the Body?

As mentioned, the search and destroy army of antibodies can last for several months in patients infected with COVID-19. However, the number of antibodies tends to decrease over time. One of the studies that included 5882 people who had recovered from this pathogen concluded that the antibodies were still present in the blood five to seven months following the infection. The results hold true for patients with both mild and severe illnesses. Moreover, there was evidence that people with severe COVID-19 illness ended up with more antibodies compared to those with a mild infection. 

T and B Cell Response – An Integral Part of Immunity 

COVID Virus
Photo by Fusion Medical Animation on Unsplash

While the antibodies developed as a response to the infection and play an important role in protecting against future infection, T and B cells also have a central role in fighting off infections. The T and B cells are the only cells in the immune system that can recognize and respond specifically to a virus as they are memory cells. These highly specialized memory cells can stay in your system for years and even decades and continue to trigger the immune system response when your body interacts with the same virus. 

One study conducted by science.org was to find out the presence of T and B cells in individuals who have had COVID-19. T and B cells are cells that remember the previous diseases and act on them if they return. The results concluded that even when the antibodies fell, memory T and B cells were present for as long as up to eight months following the infection. However, the only limitation of this study and other similar studies is that we have limited evidence since COVID-19 is a relatively new disease. Given this lack of definitive conclusions, we cannot, at this time, be sure about how long the T and B memory cells stay in the body once exposed to SARS-CoV-2. 

Vaccine-Induced Immunity – Immunity Developed Following the COVID-19 Immunization

And while the researchers assess the natural immunity against COVID-19, it is critical to assess the vaccine-induced immunity to determine the effectiveness of COVID-19 immunization and the need for a booster for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Several studies worldwide are being conducted to determine how long immunity lasts following COVID-19 immunization. A relatively new study found a surprisingly higher number of B cells (memory cells) among individuals immunized using Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine. The participants received their second dose of the mRNA vaccine at least 12 weeks before assessing their immunity. The participants included people who were not previously infected by COVID-19.

So far, the research conducted to determine vaccine-induced immunity suggests that the mRNA vaccine is likely to generate a durable and lasting immune system response; however, further evidence is required to confirm the claim. 

How Vaccine-Induced Immunity Varies Between the First and the Second Doses?

Person getting covid injection
Photo by FRANK MERIÑO from Pexels

Given how the immune system responds after one dose of the vaccine as opposed to two is difficult to assess. However, multiple studies have investigated that the antibody level in the blood varies at different stages between the two doses. 

A study involving over 50,000 participants concluded that 96.4% of the participants had positive antibodies one month following their first dose of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines. Additionally, 99.1% of the participants had positive antibodies seven and 14 days following their second dose of the vaccine. Furthermore, the antibody levels changed slightly up to two weeks following the second dose.  Other similar studies were also conducted, and the results showed that the vaccine-induced immunity varies between the first and the second doses of the mRNA vaccine. 

Comparing Natural Immunity with Vaccine-Induced Immunity 

The exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and resulting infection and COVID-19 immunization (with mRNA vaccine) have shown an immune system response generated by memory T and B cells and the creation of antibodies. However, there is a stark difference in how the immune system responds to natural infection and to the vaccine. 

The immune system’s response to the COVID-19 vaccine is fairly homogeneous, and data suggest that the mRNA vaccine results in T and B cell reactivity. However, how long does immunity last among individuals following infection, and how strong of immune system response is generated following the infection is still not definitive? 

Will COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Be a Necessity?

Given how the antibodies and the T and B memory cells behave following immunization, a key question that still remains is whether COVID-19 vaccine boosters are a necessity? The answer is still not clear; however, Albert Bourla, the CEO of Pfizer, explains the need for a booster vaccine within 12 months following the second dose.

The reasons include weaker immune system response over time, especially among older adults. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 is mutating, and new variants are emerging, which could be a possible threat to individuals, especially the ones with weakened immunity; hence, on September 22, 2021, the FDA amended their emergency vaccine procedure to include booster shots for specific criteria of people – those age 65 and over, are immune-compromised and/or work in healthcare facilities. 

Summary

In general, there are three ways we can have our immune system fight off the COVID virus, through natural immunity, the vaccine’s creation of antibodies, and T and B memory cells that will recognize and attack the virus if it comes back. But research is still going on to determine how long the vaccine and antibodies remain in the body, but after the first, second, and third doses.

So far, it appears that after the first and second doses of Pfizer or Modena, the antibodies can last for good six-twelve months, but diminish as the months proceed. Booster shots are recommended for individuals with weaker immune systems after around six months.

Does COVID-19 Affect Fertility in Men?

Ilustration of male sperm to egg
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Did you know that every time the body fights a virus, it can temporarily affect the male sperm count? Currently, it has been close to two years since the world got to know about the covid virus, but researchers are still trying to determine how the coronavirus is affecting everyone.

While it was initially thought to be affecting only the respiratory system, we know today that the virus can affect almost every part of our body, including the reproductive system.

With the emergence of new strains, such as the Delta variant we are currently being exposed to, researchers are learning more each day concerning how it affects different parts of our bodies and one of these studies is about how it affects the health of the male sperm. 

In this post, we take a closer look at this particular issue. So let’s get started. 

The Possible Effect of COVID-19 on Male Sperm 

As with many studies of covid consequences, researchers are still collecting evidence to support this claim. COVID-19 is a viral infection, and every time a body fights a virus, it temporarily affects the sperm count. However, how long COVID-19 affects male fertility is still being studied. 

In a small study of about 190 men, researchers collected the semen sample to assess the quality of sperm health. The semen was analyzed based on three criteria. 

      • The amount of sperm released at each ejaculation 
      • The shape and size of the sperm  
      • The ability of sperm to move through the female reproductive tract 

In this comparative study, researchers collected semen from 84 fertile men who were diagnosed with COVID-19, along with 105 fertile men who were not exposed to the virus. The semen was collected once every ten days over a period of 30 days. The results indicated that the infection affected sperm health on all three criteria, including sperm concentration, shape and size, and the ability to move through the female body. 

However, the effects tend to improve over time, but the time it takes for sperm to regain health depends upon the severity of the infection and the treatment provided at the time of infection. 

Pandemic Stress May Be the Culprit 

While there is limited evidence of how COVID-19 affects male fertility and sperm health, there is evidence that men who have frequent anxiety are more likely to have poor sperm health. These men have a less concentration of semen during ejaculation. Additionally, their sperms are more likely to be distorted or impaired, which affects their motility to travel inside the female body and subsequently, reduces the likelihood of fertilization. 

When a person is anxious, the body releases a hormone to respond known as glucocorticoids. It is a steroid that affects the concentration of sperm by altering the levels of testosterone in the male body. Another possible effect is oxidative stress resulting from an unhealthy lifestyle, consumption of processed foods, and exposure to free radicals due to environmental pollution.  

Amidst the pandemic and the associated uncertainty, more people have been known to be apprehensive. While some people get nervous in their job environment, others experience the stress of managing work from home. Yet, some men are concerned about the possible effects of immunization. Moreover, there is additional stress due to limited social interaction as well as maintaining social distance and the uncertainty associated with the pandemic.

Given that anxiety negatively affects sperm health, it goes without saying that pandemics can be an addition that also negatively affects sperm health among men.  

Things to Do in Times of Uncertainty 

There is limited evidence of how COVID-19 might impact male fertility; however, the effect of stress on sperm is well-documented. Moreover, several other factors may affect the quality of sperm and hence the fertility of men. Hence, it is critical to take care of the following factors in this time of pandemic and uncertainty. 

Manage Stress 

One of the most important things to do in pandemic and associated uncertainty is managing stress. Here are some of the practical ways you can use to manage stress. 

      • Take frequent breaks from watching news related to pandemics, including the ones you scroll through social media. 
      • Give your body time to unwind every day, even when you are working at home, 
      • Connect with friends and family while taking care of all the necessary precautions to control the spread of COVID-19.
      • Try to make out time for incorporating hobbies and activities of your choice. 
      • Practice meditation.  

Consume a Balanced/Healthy Diet 

Assorted Fruits
Pixaby

And while you practice ways to manage stress, don’t forget the role of consuming a balanced diet.

Ensure your diet contains all the essential food groups, including proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins. It is particularly important to include vitamins A, B, C, and E in your diet as they give a boost to your immunity, but also add in minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium so you can maintain a healthy body. 

Another essential component of your diet should be anti-inflammatory foods. Since inflammation and oxidative stress can have a negative impact on sperm quality, make sure your foods are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the anti-inflammatory foods you can include in your diet are olives, olive oil, tomatoes, fatty fish, berries, and nuts. 

Keep Moving

According to research, there is a positive correlation between physical exercise and sperm quality measured using three criteria.

    • The amount of sperm released at each ejaculation, 
    • The shape and size of the sperm, and 
    • The ability of sperm to move through the female reproductive tract.  

The results claim that men who maintain a healthy lifestyle that incorporates physical activity have better sperm quality than those who do not work out. This most likely is even more significant for seniors.

And while being physically active is important, it is critical to avoid strenuous and high-intensity workouts. A moderate workout for 30 minutes on most days of the week will help you maintain your weight. Moreover, it will reduce your risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and will also keep your reproductive health in great shape. 

Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Balance chart for Ketogenic Diet

Male obesity has been linked to poor sperm quality, and the link has been established through extensive research.

Additionally, male obesity is also linked to lower chances of pregnancy using in-vitro fertilization. Hence, you must maintain a healthy weight, which will positively affect your sperm health and, eventually, your fertility. 

Bottom Line 

COVID-19 is in many aspects still a mystery for mankind. Researchers and scientists around the world are trying to understand how the disease impacts the human body. While there is limited evidence that COVID-19 can reduce male fertility, there is a strong correlation between stress and sperm health. By incorporating stress management techniques, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight through physical exercise, you can maintain good overall health as well as enjoy a positive effect on the health of your sperm.  

Can COVID-19 Lead to a Neurological Condition?

COVID Virus
Photo by Fusion Medical Animation on Unsplash

The year 2020 was indeed a unique experience for us all. A worldwide pandemic ended up disrupting life to the core.

Given the nature of the coronavirus and the way it spreads, its effects on our health are incomprehensible for medical professionals. Hence, scientists and researchers are trying to learn more about COVID-19 and how it affects humans physically, mentally, and emotionally. Every day, they are finding out something new about the virus.

Perhaps, the most pressing area of concern for researchers is COVID-19 long haulers. These are individuals who are dealing with the lingering effects of the disease. For some, the virus has permanently damaged the lungs but others have experienced an altered sweat smell, unexplained cognitive decline, and unexplained psychological effects. Additionally, some individuals have experienced rare neurological conditions. This post is about one such rare neurological condition that has a potential connection with COVID-19 and is known as Transverse Myelitis (TM). 

As of now, three cases of transverse myelitis have been reported. While the number of the sample is still too small to prove a solid connection between TM and COVID-19, there is the possibility that the rare neurological condition may be related to the virus. Researchers are delving into the evidence and finding out this connection is an insight into what they have discovered so far. 

What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse myelitis is a rare neurological condition that is a result of inflammation in the spinal cord. The inflammation leads to damage to your myelin which is the fatty substance that covers your neurons. Myelin typically works as an insulator around the neurons so the neural message to and from the brain doesn’t get lost along the way. 

Loss of myelin causes the scarring of your spinal cord that blocks neural messages and leads to physical problems. And while the myelin has a natural ability to repair and regenerate, once the inflammation damages it, the condition is often irreversible.  

This rare condition affects around 1-8 people per million every year. Moreover, the condition is more common in children between the ages of 10 and 19. However, it can affect people of all ages.

While the exact cause of transverse myelitis is not known, certain health conditions may lead to this disease. 

      • Lyme disease
      • Viral and bacterial infections 
      • Measles 
      • Syphilis 

Some individuals may also develop neurological conditions due to spinal injuries or defects in the structure of the spine. Atherosclerosis or other vascular diseases which reduce the oxygen supply to the spinal cord may be among the potential reasons for transverse myelitis. 

Moreover, TM can be among the warning signs of other neurological or autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus.    

The Possible Connection Between Transverse Myelitis and COVID-19

:Illustration of a bioligical connection
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Since viral infections can trigger the condition, there is a close link between COVID-19 and transverse myelitis. There is an established connection between certain strains of COVID-19 that have long-term neurological consequences. So far, there is evidence of three individuals who reported to have developed the condition following the COVID-19 infection.

The viral infection triggers the possible inflammatory complication that affected the myelin leading to physical symptoms. 

Identifying the Rare Neurological Condition 

There are a few classic symptoms of this rare neurological condition. It can be distinguished from other conditions because it leads to one or more of the following symptoms. 

      • Weakness in the muscles of arms and legs 
      • Sensory alterations such as the feeling of burning, twitching, and numbness especially in the lower body 
      • Bowel dysfunction
      • Pain in the lower back, that’s often associated with shooting pain that radiates in the arms and legs

It is also common for people with transverse myelitis to experience frequent muscle spasms that are often accompanied by headache, fever, loss of appetite, and an overall feeling of discomfort. 

If you have recovered from coronavirus and are experiencing any or all of the symptoms highlighted above, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider. While it is common for people to experience weakness and body aches as they recover from the COVID-19 infection, if any of the above-mentioned symptoms persist, it could be a sign of something more serious. 

Your healthcare provider will likely recommend certain tests to diagnose transverse myelitis. Your doctor may recommend the following. 

      • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
      • Lumbar puncture (testing of spinal fluid) 
      • Certain blood tests 

Treating and Managing Life with Transverse Myelitis

As of now, there is no known cure. While some people may recover from the symptoms, others have to live with it. In some cases, where the individual is experiencing severe symptoms, the healthcare provider may recommend hospitalization. However, in other cases, a combination of pain-relieving medications, such as corticosteroid drugs, and physical therapy is used to manage pain. 

Corticosteroid drugs intend to suppress the immune system activity while speeding up the recovery process. However, if the medicines do not seem to reduce the intensity of pain and other symptoms, your health care provider may recommend plasma exchange. The process helps remove harmful antibodies from the blood, which may contribute to improving the symptoms. Your healthcare provider may also recommend physical therapy depending upon the severity and type of your disease. 

The long-term effects of transverse myelitis are not constant. However, they may vary from person to person. Around ⅓ of the individuals diagnosed with transverse myelitis recover to a great extent with almost all of their symptoms gone. Another ⅓ recover partially with some of their symptoms remaining persistent. Again, the intensity of pain and severity may vary from person to person. The last third of patients diagnosed with the disease recover poorly and continue to experience the symptoms which also can lead to physical disabilities. One of the possible concerns, especially for this group, is how the disease affects them mentally. Due to their physical immobility and persistent pain, such patients are more prone to developing psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety. 

Final Words 

It has been over a year that the global COVID-19 pandemic has flipped our lives upside down. And as researchers are learning more about it and the new data emerges, there is growing evidence that there is a possible connection between COVID-19 and several neurological conditions, including transverse myelitis. Until there is more concrete evidence on how COVID-19 can lead to long-lasting physical and mental health conditions, it’s best to keep doing what infectious disease experts have been asking for months. Maintain social distance, wear a face mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, and get vaccinated! 

Vaccinating Immune Diffeciency People and the Booster Shot

Person getting injection
Photo by FRANK MERIÑO from Pexels

If you have been watching the news, the conclusions that our scientists have been making are changing faster than with every passing day, not to mention the controversies that surround every conclusion. Wear masks! Don’t wear masks! Get a vaccination! Don’t get one! Children are getting sick from the vaccine. No, they aren’t. And the feuding goes on. With all this controversy and confusion, let’s stick to one subject for this article:

Should High-Risk People Get a Booster Shot?

A booster shot is a third injection (second for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) that is said to help increase your immunity from the covid virus, including the latest Delta variant. Many people have been questioning this though. Some are saying it is nonsense while others question what should be the final verdict that will help keep these individuals protected? Unfortunately, we do not know this yet, but from what we do know, we can make some educated guesses.

Before we delve further into this article, we would strongly advise all our readers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible, unless you have been told by your doctor to wait. Moreover, ensure that your loved ones, friends, and family members get the vaccine. Not only does this help protect each individual, but it also protects those with cancer and other immunocompromised individuals who are vulnerable to the disease.

Do Immunocompromised Individuals  Benefit from the COVID Vaccine?

Man getting injectionThe problem is that Individuals who suffer from blood cancer, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma may find that the COVID-19 vaccine leads to a lowered immune response. However, this is the norm for all vaccines when it comes to these individuals. However, immunocompromised individuals are strongly recommended to get the vaccine as it still provides them with some sort of protection.

Those who are getting treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation for other types of cancers, can also face some form of a compromised immune system. As of now, there is not enough evidence to conclude whether these immunocompromised individuals and COVID vaccines have any connection and whether the effectiveness of the vaccine will be lower for them. 

However, doctors have urged everyone to get vaccinated. This is mainly because exposure from unvaccinated individuals can also majorly harm immunocompromised patients. 

Is a Booster Shot Necessary for Immune Compromised Individuals?

Even though several laboratory studies have pointed to the fact that high-risk individuals may require a booster dose of the vaccine, more research is needed. As of now, case studies are being conducted on individuals who have received both doses of either Pfizer or Moderna, or one dose of Johnson and Johnson. These individuals were given a booster shot two weeks after their last shot.

The CDC advisory committee had a meeting on July 22, 2021, to figure out whether immunocompromised individuals and COVID vaccine boosters had any connection and if the booster could increase the protection of the individual. Even though lots of evidence points towards the fact that a third dose of the vaccination could increase protection, no government agency or medical organization has recommended patients to get this yet. 

Is it Okay for Transplant Patients to Get their Antibodies Tested?

According to the CDC, antibody testing is not recommended across the board. This is because those who have normal immune systems will show a great response, mainly because most vaccines are known to be 95 percent effective.

There is no harm if a transplant patient wants to get an antibody test. However, it must be kept in mind that a test provides data, but it does not contain all the information. 

If you have recently gotten a transplant and have already been given both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, we would recommend waiting a month before getting an antibody test. If the test comes out to be negative, it shows that you do not have great immunity. However, even if the test comes out to be positive, this does not mean that you can give up on being careful. As a transplant patient, you must be careful until there is further research on the subject.

One of the biggest confusions with positive antibody tests is that the term “positive” can entail a number of things. Medical experts will not be able to judge if a patient has an intact T-cell response, even if their test results are good. Moreover, T-cell inhibitors are common with transplant patients since this causes acute rejection in the patient’s organs.

How Immune Compromised Individuals Can Protect Themselves from COVID

Girl wearing mask for covid

The best way for immunocompromised patients to protect themselves from COVID-19 is to avoid going into huge crowds. Moreover, they should not attend any indoor public events that contains unvaccinated individuals. In case everyone is vaccinated, they should all be masked for an immunocompromised patient to attend. We would urge that all unnecessary travel is stopped, including out-of-country travel. This is mainly because new variants keep springing up, and the infection rates are climbing by the day. 

In case you have not already done so, urge those around you, your loved ones, friends, and family members to get the vaccine for your protection and theirs. There is a huge magnitude of research that shows that the vaccine is completely safe. Most people do not have any side effects, and even if they do, the side effects are minuscule, just like they would be for any other vaccine. Additionally, those who are vaccinated are less likely to get severe symptoms from the Delta variant.

Conclusion

It is our belief that everyone over the age of 15 should get the COVID-19 vaccination. The disease does not discriminate, meaning that everyone is at risk. If you have loved ones in the hospital who are immunocompromised, have cancer, or have recently gotten a transplant, you should make it your responsibility to be careful when around them! 

Mental Health Implications of Virtual Learning

covid virtutal learning
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

How do you like this covid pandemic so far? OK, maybe we’re being a little bit facetious, but we wanted to make a point. It’s no fun and for many, it’s debilitating, and others, just plain tragic. In general, we all have suffered one way or another. 

With that said, one of the more ‘hidden’ factors is how it has affected our mental health. Some people have become depressed. Others found themselves getting into arguments and fights with their own family as they would stay stuck in their homes during the lockdown periods.

How Does Covid Affect Education? 

There is an ongoing debate over whether students should wear or not wear masks, especially our younger ones and there are currently studies are showing how telelearning is affecting our students. While virtual learning is a lot more comfortable and convenient for both students and parents, many believe it is not a viable solution in the long run. 

In this post, we take a closer look at the effects virtual learning has had and does have on the mental health of students during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Effects of Virtual Learning on the Mental Health of Students 

Teachers and students alike are having e a hard time adjusting to this huge change. It is especially difficult to deal with the change for people who already have preexisting mental health conditions. Moreover, the change can be particularly overwhelming for students. 

Imagine a child who used to spend 5-6 hours every day along with peers of the same age and teachers who are now expected to spend a similar amount of time in front of the screen. While virtual learning allows children to connect online, it is not the same as physically connecting with other human beings.

During physical learning, students learn several important traits, such as socializing. They form friendships and share fun memories with other children of the same age. Unfortunately, telelearning does not meet this basic human need.  

As a result, they miss out on the connection that’s critical for the cognitive development of young children. But missing this physical connection is not the only drawback of virtual learning. There is a lot more. Here are some of the reasons why telelearning is causing mental health effects among students of all grades. 

Virtual Learning Can Lead to Fatigue 

In the uncertain times amidst the pandemic, educational institutions expect students to take up learning sessions virtually. Moreover, they are expected to spend a similar amount of time that they used to spend at the physical facility. However, spending long hours on Zoom classes or video conferencing calls can lead to fatigue. In fact, there is a newly coined term for this type of fatigue that’s known as “Zoom Fatigue.”

Since virtual classes can significantly reduce mobility as well and require you to constantly view yourself during video chats, it can lead to an increase in cognitive load. Zoom fatigue can affect people of all ages, however, it is usually difficult for younger children to process it hence, virtual learning leads to fatigue. Constant fatigue plants the seeds for stress and anxiety, especially among school-aged children. 

Virtual Learning is One of the Major Causes of Stress and Anxiety 

In a traditional physical school setup, students are expected to follow a specific schedule. They know at what time they are expected to wake up and go to bed. They also have specific school schedules that revolve around class time, homework time, and extracurricular activities. 

In times of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is heightened uncertainty and sticking to a schedule is a challenge. Since parents are also expected to work from home, there is a lack of structure in most households. Moreover, having a strict schedule is never the same as virtual learning. Lack of schedules and structure in life in general, along with the stress of virtual learning, is taking a toll on the mental health of students and their parents, which is leading to a rise in anxiety and stress for both students and their parents. 

As a result, the entire household is getting affected. Furthermore, it is particularly challenging for parents as they have to get more involved in school work and are expected to work from home at the same time. 

At the end of the day, virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic is exhausting and stressful for the entire household. 

How to Take Care of Your Child’s Mental Health? 

While virtual learning has significant mental health effects, here are a few strategies that you can try to minimize the negative implications of virtual learning on your child’s mental health. 

Have a Designated Space for Learning 

Indeed your child is learning at home, but you can make it more structured by designating a space for learning at home. You can choose a room or a spot at home with fewer distractions so your child can better concentrate on learning. Moreover, you can also use the space as part of your work from a home arrangement where you can be more focused and productive. 

Establish a Regular Schedule 

It may be difficult to establish a regular schedule when everyone is at home. But it is still important to set a regular schedule. Make sure you set up a specific bedtime and stick to it. Similarly, there needs to be a regular time to wake up and start your day. Only when you establish a regular schedule, you will be able to plan your day better and end up being more productive. 

Encourage Healthy Habits 

One of the best ways to counter fatigue and stress is by encouraging healthy habits. Make sure you and your family are eating a healthy and balanced diet, getting enough nighttime sleep, and are involved inadequate physical activity. Despite the pandemic, you can still go for some indoor physical activities at home, which will also be a fun time for the entire family. When you encourage healthy habits, you will notice an improvement in the energy levels and overall physical and mental well-being of the entire family. 

Seeking Support  

The COVID-19 pandemic is indeed a great challenge not just for the students but for parents and teachers as well. In such times of crisis where the physical health and well-being of your child are a priority, virtual learning seems like a viable solution. However, it comes with challenges that can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being.

If you feel that you or your child needs support, do not hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. The uncertainty that we experience today is unheard of and it’s okay to feel the need for professional assistance. Talk to your therapist and find out more about how you can take care of your child’s mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Till then enjoy the virtual learning sessions, take care of your mental health and stay safe and healthy!

COVID-19 Delta Variant COVID-19 Mutations

coivd-19 Delta variant illustration
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues around the world, global public health authorities are closely monitoring the coronavirus mutations.

Even though quite a few variants are circulating worldwide, there are a few variants of concern that have shown increased transmissibility and risk of more severe infections. Perhaps, the most worrisome of all variant concerns is the delta variant. This post looks at why the delta variant is one of the most worrisome coronavirus strains. 

Coronavirus Mutations 

Viruses are constantly changing form. They mutate to adapt and survive. As a result, variants emerge which have one or more strains that are different from others. Global health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) as well as the CDC closely monitor these variants to find out how they vary in terms of characteristics. 

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, the coronavirus has changed several forms and has had several variants. The health authorities have classified them into three categories; 

  • Variants of interest – Variants that may differ in characteristics but are not widely prevalent in the general population. 
  • Variants of Concern – Variants that have higher transmissibility and risk of more severe infection.  
  • Variants of High Consequence – variants that are resistant to vaccines and available treatment. 

So far, there are no variants of high consequence, however, there is one that is concerning, and is responsible for the recent upsurges in the number of cases worldwide. This is the delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2. 

The Delta Variant 

Microscopic view of the COVID virus
Microscopic view of the COVID virus. Pixaby.

This virus mutation is one of the most worrisome strains of COVID-19 because it can spread more easily.  The strain has mutations on the spike protein, which make it easier for the virus to infect human cells. So, individuals infected with this variant are more contagious.

Research suggests that this variant is around 50% more contagious than the Alpha variant, the strain that was first identified in the U.K. Note that the alpha, which was the first variant also known as B.1.1.7, was already 50% more contagious than the novel coronavirus first identified in China in December 2019.

According to statistics, a person infected with the delta variant will likely infect three to four individuals on average. The average was as low as one or two individuals with the original coronavirus strain, but the Delta variant is considered dangerous because it may be able to escape the protection of the COVID-19 vaccines. The average infection per day for this mutation is 24,000.

Recent data from the UK suggests that the Delta variant can cause headaches, sore throat, runny noses, and possibly a fever and a cough, even if you are fully vaccinated, but the possibility of having severe responses to this variant appears to be much lower than it predecessors, especially if you have been vaccinated. 

According to a recent study in Israel, the chances are 64% effective at preventing infection but 93% at preventing serious illness and hospitalization after receiving both doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Delta Plus – A Sub-Variant

Another reason why the Delta variant is one of the most worrisome strains is that it also has a sub-variant known as Delta Plus, also known as B.1.617.2.1 or AY.1. This particular coronavirus strain allows it to attack the lung cells more strongly and may also escape the protection offered by the vaccine. 

The sub-variant is considered to be the variant of the coronavirus strain that was responsible for the recent wave of COVID-19 in India. While the Indian health authorities have already classified it as a variant of concern, the WHO and CDC do not consider it as a variant of concern. 

The Symptoms Caused by Delta Variant 

Some of the symptoms caused by the Delta variant are quite similar to the symptoms caused by the original coronavirus strain which include the following:

  • Persistent cough
  • Headache
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 

However, according to studies, there are a few symptoms that are different from the original coronavirus strain. Unlike the original coronavirus strain, loss of sense of taste and smell is less common among individuals infected with the Delta variant. Moreover, headaches and runny noses seem to be more common. 

Current Delta Variant Situation in the U.S. 

The Delta variant has been identified in 50 states in the U.S. If you look at the new cases, the Delta variant accounts for more than 50% of new infections in the U.S. on average with some states reporting as many as 80% cases due to the Delta variant. Some of the potentially high-risk states include Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska. 

Additionally, in some parts of the world, where the number of new cases is increasing, the authorities are resorting back to measures that were initially enforced to curtail the spread of COVID-19. Countries such as Australia, South Africa, and Bangladesh have already enforced lockdowns and curfew while several other countries are placing travel restrictions and quarantine measures. In all, authorities are directing efforts to curtail the spread of the virus and reduce the transmission as the virus only mutates when it spreads to a larger part of the population. 

As of now, no one is exactly sure how the Delta variant will affect the U.S. population since more than 50% of Americans have already received the vaccine.

Man washing his hands in a sink
Keeping your hands clean with soap or sanitizer is one of the best protections against spreading the COVID virus

The best precautions against this variant, as well as all the others, are the same as before, although some may think this is overkill at this point in time; however, these precautions are still the best defense after the vaccines: Stay away from potentially crowded areas, wash hands frequently, wear masks, eat healthily, take vitamins that help boost your immune system, and exercise.

Depending upon the state and county/city that you are in, whether you have been vaccinated or not, these precautions may be enhanced or reduced, but in a nutshell, just be careful! 

6 Things You Need to Know About the Moderna Vaccine for COVID-19

We have previously learned how these vaccines work. Now let’s delve a bit deeper into each of them starting with the Moderna vaccine.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the emergency use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine On December 18, 2020. That made it the second vaccine after Pfizer in the U.S. to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. There are a few differences though, so let’s take a look at how they differ and what you need to know about the Moderna vaccine. 

#1. What is Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine?

Hand holding Mordera Vaccine
Photo: Bigstock

So far, the FDA has not approved any vaccine to prevent the spread of COVID-19 for general use (only for emergency use). The Moderna vaccine is authorized for use in adults aged 18 and above under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

The Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 is injected into the muscle, and two doses are administered one month apart. 

#2. What Should You Tell Your Vaccination Provider Before You Get the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine?

Couple talking to a medical professional
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Your vaccination provider needs to know the details of any medical conditions and allergies that you may have. You must share the following information with your vaccination provider before you get your first shot. 

      • Any allergies that you may have, 
      • Any bleeding disorders (or any medications that you may be using such as blood thinners), 
      • If you are immuno-compromised or are taking any medications that may affect your immunity, 
      • If you have any metabolic/chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, 
      • If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, 
      • Have you received an initial dose of another vaccine for COVID-19?

Your vaccination provider may ask you for some more details depending upon your age and medical history. 

#3. Is Moderna Vaccine Safe for Children?

So far, children have rarely developed severe forms of COVID-19, and deaths among children from the virus are even rarer. Moreover, parents are still reluctant to include their children in the clinical trials for the COVID-19 vaccine. However, given the emergence of new and fast-spreading variants, younger children may contribute to the spread of the virus. Thus, it is integral that young children are offered immunization. 

The Moderna vaccine is considered safe for adults over the age of 18. However, the new trials among children include kids as young as 12 years old. Therefore, there is no evidence for the safety of the vaccine among children.  

#4. Is Moderna Vaccine Safe for Pregnant and Lactating Women?

Pregnant Woman
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Pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19. However, there is limited data on whether the Moderna vaccine is safe for pregnant women.

Pregnant women have not been actively involved in clinical trials. Moreover, breastfeeding mothers were also not part of the trials, so there is no numerical evidence on the safety of the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 for lactating mothers (and their children). 

However, since pregnancy increases the risk of severe COVID-19, the WHO recommends that it’s in your best interest to take the vaccine if you are pregnant and have other health conditions. Moreover, the WHO recommends offering the Moderna vaccine for breastfeeding women; however, the organization does not recommend quitting lactation following the vaccination. 

If you are pregnant or lactating and have not yet received the vaccine, it is best to contact your healthcare provider and find out the best choice for yourself.  

#5. What are the Risks of the Moderna Vaccine for COVID-19? 

Similar to the Pfizer vaccine, the risks are about the same. There is little chance that the Moderna vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction, a condition that occurs within the first few minutes after getting the shot.

The condition can be treated, and that’s exactly why your medical provider may ask you to stay at the vaccination center for a while so they can monitor your condition after vaccination. Some of the signs of a severe allergic reaction include:

      • Difficulty in breathing, 
      • Swelling on face and throat, 
      • Palpitation or increased heart rate, 
      • Rashes over the body, and 
      • Dizziness and weakness. 

Apart from these signs of a severe allergic reaction, and similar to the side effects of the Pfizer vaccine. It is possible but not guaranteed that individuals who get the Moderna vaccine will experience the following side effects.

      • Pain on the site of injection, 
      • Swelling or tenderness in the arm, 
      • Fatigue, 
      • Muscle ache, 
      • Joint pain, 
      • Headache, 
      • Nausea and vomiting, and 
      • Chills 

Some people complained about headaches and fatigue, which appeared to be the most common side effects, while others have said that they felt nothing after the shot. These cases ranged between males and females, people of ages 20 – 70, and from a variety of ethnic groups. Of these, there were seniors who didn’t feel any side effects, while some millennials claimed to have headaches and others were fatigued.

Although some think that one’s immune system was a help to inhibit the side effects, there is no guarantee that that is the case. Right now, there is no rhyme or reason why some humans are affected and others not. Additionally, for those that were affected, they tended to feel better after 24 hours.

#6. Who Should Not Get the Moderna Vaccine for COVID-19?

You should not get the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 if you;

      • Developed a severe allergic reaction after receiving the first dose of the vaccine, 
      • Are allergic to any of the ingredients of the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19. 

Key Takeaways 

The Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 is the second vaccine that has been authorized for emergency use by the FDA. So far, there is no evidence about the safety of the drug among children under the age of 18. However, trials for children aged 12 and above have started.

While pregnant and lactating women were not actively involved in the trials, the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 does not appear to cause any serious risks for pregnant and lactating women. However, it’s best to discuss your health conditions with your primary caregiver before getting the shot. 

Understanding the Battle Against Free Radicals in COVID Patients

What Happens When Foreign Agents Enter Your Body? 

Microscopic view of the COVID virus
Microscopic view of the COVID virus

A virus infiltrates healthy cells, then makes copies of those infected cells and distributes them throughout your body. The coronavirus is no exception, but in this case, these bad cells concentrate mostly in and around your lungs; hence, the virus is considered a respiratory illness that is spread via droplets (coughs or sneezes) from an infected person to a non-infected person. 

COVID and Other Respiratory Viruses

Most people who have died from COVID experienced respiratory complications that led subsequently to lung failure or cardiac arrest. 

In most respiratory infections, a person’s lungs (as well as many other parts of the body) are damaged due to free radicals (atoms with missing electrons) released into the thoracic cavity, inflaming the lungs and creating oxidative stress. And since SARS-CoV-2, SARS and the influenza viruses have a similar structure, it is reasonable to assume that the mechanism that sets them off (medically called pathogenic mechanism) may be the common denominator of them all. 

This means that COVID patients who develop lung problems were found to be attacked by the free radicals, the same as those that are found in the SARs viruses. But despite the obvious link, there hasn’t been much discussion or research on the subject. Moreover, all the current preventive measures and treatment protocols circulating worldwide fail to mention or tackle the virus-induced free radicals.

Only one major study has been conducted on the issue of free radicals in COVID patients by Professor Jun Wu, in which he has examined their role such as superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, nitric oxide (NO), and peroxynitrite in organ failure, cell death and other complications in COVID patients. To help you understand the damage caused by these compounds and how that ties with oxidative stress, we have provided an analysis of the study mentioned above.

The Free Radical Storm in COVID

The coronavirus is mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, (small secreted proteins that have a specific effect on the communication between cells) which trigger an immune response in the body and stimulate the generation of free radicals. In simple terms, they are the proteins that make the SARS-CoV-2 release an inflammatory cytokines storm in the thoracic cavity, swelling up the lung tissues. This inflammation activates a hyperimmune response in the body, signaling immune cells to reach the site.

Stages in COVID and Relevant Treatments

Study shows that the coronavirus infection progresses in three stages. In the first one, the virus attacks the body. In the next phase, a chain reaction from the virus leads to the release of toxic free radicals such as nitric oxide. And once the destructive compounds are free in the body, they react with healthy cells, creating oxidative stress in the lungs.

What is oxidative stress?

Oxidative Stress Illustration

By the time COVID patients are hospitalized, their infection has already progressed to level 2 or 3, which means they have harmful radicals running in their system. During the said stage, administering antiviral drugs isn’t going to make much difference. Instead, medical experts should tackle the real culprit responsible for the respiratory deficits; free radicals. And the way to do that is by inducing antioxidants and potent free radical scavengers to eliminate the destructive compounds.

Tackling Free Radicals and The Damage Caused

Superoxide dismutase or SOD is an antioxidant that has been reported to tackle harmful free radicals during scientific research in lab rats. But unfortunately, SOD for clinical use isn’t available currently; therefore, it cannot be administered to people facing lung damage due to free radicals. That said, other compounds can be used in place of SOD that mimic the chemical composition and pathways of Superoxide dismutase.

Giving Antioxidants

Natural antioxidants can also be administered to COVID patients suffering from complications. Vitamin C and E are known to be incredibly effective antioxidants and free radical scavengers. Those could be used to suppress the damage caused by nitric oxide and superoxide. Studies have shown that vitamin C significantly reduces symptoms of the common cold when given orally to patients.

COVID and the common cold are vastly different from one another in the severity of symptoms and the scale of free radicals produced, so naturally, the vitamin C dosage that has shown to be efficacious in the case of the common cold will not be enough for people suffering from the coronavirus. Plus, the short lifespan of vitamin C in the bloodstream means a small amount cannot be sufficient for tackling the damage caused by free radicals in the body. That said, significantly large doses of vitamin C, introduced into the body intravenously, can work as a therapy for radical damage to the lungs in COVID patients.

Natural Defense Mechanism in the Body

Nrf2 is a natural antioxidative agent in the body that can fight destructive compounds. However, since its amount decreases with age, older patients cannot use their natural mechanism to minimize and tackle the impact of free radicals in the body. For elderly patients, Nrf2 activators should be injected into the body to revive the body’s natural fighting mechanism. Aside from that, large doses of antioxidants, such as zinc, should be given. Zinc is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor in SOD; administering it into COVID patients as combination therapy with other antioxidative compounds can help with the oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

Final Thoughts

Although there hasn’t been enough research on antioxidants as a treatment for COVID, the little scientific evidence available suggests that it can work. Let’s see when the medical experts start to think in that direction.

Your COVID Vaccine Questions Answered!

Man holding needle
Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels

Are you ready to take the COVID-19 vaccine or have you been vaccinated already? And if you are not going to get the shot, why not? And if not, maybe we can convince you otherwise! 

Last year we discussed the flu and how to stay safe. Now we have the COVID-19 virus, but we are making heavy strides in containing it.

The CDC recently reduced the age to 12, so now over 90% of the population in the United States is eligible for their vaccine shot and on May 13, the president announced that masks will not be required for all those who have been vaccinated, so we are definitely moving in the right direction.

According to a survey carried out in February 2021, 69% of Americans were either already vaccinated or were planning to get vaccinated. This percentage has increased compared to only 60% of Americans who wanted to get the vaccine late last year. Still, 30% of the respondents say that they won’t get the vaccine. 

Man unsure about taking the vaccine
Should I or shouldn’t I?

Aside from children below 12 years of age, the other remaining holdouts are people who are just not comfortable with getting the shot. Whether it be that they have a fear of potential side effects, religious reasons or that they just don’t have trust in the pharmaceutical companies, the government or both, they refuse to take the drug.

To clear the air and any misconceptions, we’re going to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the COVID vaccines. 

How Do the Vaccines Work?

Both Pfizer and the Moderna drugs refer to a new type of biotechnology known as mRNA; that is, it teaches our cells to make proteins that fight off the virus. Unlike several other types of vaccines that generate an immune system response by injecting a weakened form of a virus into the body, the mRNA vaccine teaches the cells to generate an immune response independently. It performs this function by sending instructions to part of the spike protein found on the surface of the virus (those orangy intrusions seen in the electron microscope images). Once these instructions are ‘read’ and activated, the immune system will go after them to destroy them. 

Which are the Most Promising COVID Vaccines?

Here is a list of the most common COVID vaccines being used around the globe. 

Pfizer-BioNTech

Pfizer And Biontech Vaccine Against Covid-19. Glass Medical VialAccording to an independent analysis published in November 2020, Pfizer-BioNTech announced 95% effectiveness of their BNT162b2 vaccine.

This vaccine claims to be 90% effective in the “real-world”; that is, in those outside the clinical trial. It is a two-injection vaccine for both young and old people. While it is still unclear as to how long this vaccine will provide you immunity, research suggests that it can last for a year or longer. 

Moderna

American Moderna Covid-19 vaccine vials on a lab desk. Chemical glassware and test tubes for pharmacy development. Moderna tests inoculation against coronavirus.

The mRNA-1273 vaccine for COVID is a result of collaboration between Moderna and the NIAID (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases). According to the phase-III trial conducted on over 30,000 volunteers, this vaccine has been deemed as 94% effective. In real-world conditions, the vaccine claims to be 90% effective.

Johnson & Johnson

The Johnson & Johnson (J&J) one-dose vaccine has an overall effectiveness of 66% when it comes to preventing moderate to severe COVID cases as shown by its phase-III clinical trials. Even though the FDA authorized the vaccine in February 2021, they had to put a pause on them in April 2020 due to blood clot development and low platelet count in some patients. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine now comes with a warning label about the isolated chance of developing blood clots and low platelet count a week or two after being vaccinated.

AstraZeneca 

Like most of the other vaccines, the AZD1222 vaccine uses the coronavirus S protein gene to stimulate the immune system. The AstraZeneca vaccine is 76% effective according to its phase III clinical trial. This vaccine was authorized in the U.K. and a few other countries for emergency use. However, just like the J&J vaccine, AstraZeneca also caused blood clots within two weeks of use. There were about 222 cases reported out of 34 million people vaccinated across Europe and the U.K, some of which have proven to be fatal. 

Some other COVID vaccines that are also rolling out are Sputnik V and Sinopharm. One of the much-awaited vaccines that might be launched by the end of this year is going to be a result of collaboration between two of the biggest vaccine giants, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Sanofi. 

Which Vaccine is the Best?

If you ask any expert, there’s one thing they will say: the best vaccine is the one that is available to you. If you are leaning to get the vaccine and are eligible for it, then get the one that’s being given to you. All the vaccines are effective; you can’t make any discernment from one to another. 

However, since more information comes to light every day, it becomes easier to make a decision. Experts also claim that it is pointless to weigh the efficacy rates of the clinical trials to decide which vaccine to get. If you’re still unsure about which vaccine to get, it’s best to choose one that hasn’t shown any severe side effects, such as blood clotting. 

Are the Vaccines Safe?

Vaccine Research lab
Photo by Trnava University on Unsplash

All the vaccines approved in the U.S. undergo stringent safety testing procedures. The CDC also continues to collect and collate any data they can find on the side effects that the vaccine may cause over time. 

Almost every vaccine has minor side effects, such as fever, fatigue, sore arm, nausea, chills, and body aches. These symptoms are especially prominent after the second dose. You must remember that this is a good sign. It is an indicator that your immune system is reacting to the vaccine. 

The reason that the side effects are generally stronger after the second dose is because the vaccine spikes a protein that causes the immune system to react. According to the CDC, 80% of those who reported side effects were women. 

There are also some very rare cases in which patients might experience side effects, such as anaphylaxis. While this can be dangerous and life-threatening, it is definitely treatable. According to research by the CDC, 2 to 5 people per million vaccinated have experienced this reaction. Fortunately, there haven’t been any deaths reported.  

Happy people at a computer
Photo by Fox from Pexels

So what are you waiting for? Get the shot! You’ll feel better about it and you will be doing a favor for your community, not to mention your contribution will help all of us get back to normal living!

A Comparison of AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson’s Vaccines

What is the mRNA Vaccine?

Table with bottle of vaccines
Image by hakan german from Pixabay

First, let us start by defining the mRNA vaccine. It is a new type of disease-killing drug that trains our cells how to make a protein that will trigger our immune system to fight off the virus. 

At least 40% of Americans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and there are many more waiting for it. Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are currently available in the U.S. and other countries, but there are a few more vaccines that might get authorization for use in the U.S. soon. While you might not get to choose the vaccine that you get for immunization, it is still helpful to know about the different types of vaccines administered in other parts of the world. With this in mind, here is a comparison of the four most prominent vaccines for COVID-19. 

Pfizer-BioNTech

The FDA approved the emergency use authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on December 11, 2020. Being the first authorized vaccine for the coronavirus with an efficacy of 95%, people around the world had high hopes for this mRNA vaccine. While initially there were reservations about the rapid development of an mRNA drug, today, an increasing number of people in the U.S. are willing to get immunization against COVID-19. 

The mRNA vaccine for COVID-19 codes the virus’ spike protein. Once injected, the cells trigger the body’s immune system to recognize the invasion of the virus in the body. In the trials, the vaccine demonstrated an efficacy of 95%. However, the vaccine requires specialized storage that can maintain a temperature of around -94 degrees F. Here is a quick overview of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for COVID-19. 

    • Type: mRNA vaccine
    • Doses: 2 doses, 3 weeks apart
    • Emergency Use Authorization: December 11 2020
    • Efficacy: Around 95% efficacy 

Effectiveness against new variants: Clinical research suggests that the vaccine is quite effective against the new U.K., South African and Latin American variants of the virus. 

Moderna

Another mRNA vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA is Moderna. Like the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, the Moderna mRNA vaccine has an efficacy of around 95% and got authorization for emergency use on December 18, 2020. However, unlike the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the Moderna vaccine does not require a specialized temperature-controlled environment. Rather it remains stable at 36 to 46 degrees F and can be stored in a standard medical or home use refrigerator for up to 30 days. Moreover, the vaccine can be stored at -4 degrees F for up to six months. Here are some quick facts about the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19.

    • Type: mRNA vaccine
    • Doses: 2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart
    • EUA: December 18 2020
    • Efficacy: Around 95%

AstraZeneca-University of Oxford

The third vaccine that has shown the efficacy of 90% in the clinical trials following the first dose is the AstraZeneca vaccine. The efficacy results were from the trials in the U.K. and Brazil. The two doses were administered at least one month apart. However, after the administration of the second dose, there was a decreased efficacy of 62%. The combined effect of the vaccine is 70%. Moreover, it can be stored at 36-46 degrees F for at least six months and does not require a specialized storage facility. 

But unlike Moderna and Pfizer BioNtech, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is not an mRNA vaccine. Rather, it is an adenovirus-based vaccine that deploys a replication-deficient viral vector based on a weakened version of the adenovirus, the common cold virus that causes infections among chimpanzees. The vaccine contains the genetic materials of the spike protein. Once the vaccine is administered, the immune system is stimulated to attack the coronavirus. 

However, since the very beginning, this vaccine has been a part of several controversies. From the effectiveness of the vaccine to the side effects and halt in the E.U. countries, there are still concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the Oxford-AstraZeneca drug. The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine administration is linked to an immune system response in the form of blood clots. As a result, several European countries have put a halt to the distribution of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine. Here are some brief facts about the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. 

    • Type: Adenovirus-based
    • Doses: 2 doses, at least 28 days apart
    • EUA Date: Not approved for use in the U.S. yet
    • Efficacy: Around 70% (as of now)

Johnson & Johnson

The fourth on the list is the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, which is the only single-dose vaccine on the market. Like the Oxford-AstraZeneca drug, the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is also adenovirus-based with an effectiveness of around 66%. It involves the use of an inactivated common cold virus. During the trials, a single dose brought about a robust immune response and was generally well-tolerated. 

However, the administration of the vaccine is associated with a “rare and severe” type of side effect that clots blood. The blood clots are cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) that occurs along with another medical condition with low levels of platelets. The side effects are observed among women within six to 13 days after receiving the injection. While the FDA recommended a halt on the use of this vaccine, the pause was lifted on April 23 and the distribution was resumed. 

Type: Adenovirus-based
Doses: Single-dose vaccine
EUA: February 27 2021
Efficacy: Around 66%Conclusion 

Man getting injectionWith these four vaccines for COVID-19 and many others that the world is developing, we are indeed a step closer to bringing this pandemic to an end. But it’s still a long way to go. Till then, continue to follow the COVID-19 safety protocols and stay safe!