CAPE TOWN- Early results from t he Covid-19 vaccine being developed by the University of Oxford in collaboration with AstraZeneca found it produces a robust immune response in both elderly people and younger adults.
The novel coronavirus poses a greater risk to the elderly and many scientists and researchers have feared that a vaccine could be less effective for the age group. As the human body ages the immune system deteriorates, this is known as immunosenescence. This could explain why older age groups suffer the most from Covid-19 infections and also leaves their bodies prone to infections and illnesses.
According to the Financial Times, the vaccine being developed by Oxford and AstraZeneca, triggers protective antibodies and T-cells in older age groups - among those most at risk from the virus.
In a study conducted earlier this year, Swedish researchers found that people can develop long-term Covid-19 immunity after infection as T-lymphocytes (T-cells) may have the ability to recognize the virus.
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The Oxford and AstraZeneca vaccine generated robust immune responses in a group of healthy adults aged between 18-55. Immunogenicity blood tests were carried out and details of the finding are expected to be published shortly in a clinical journal.
Speaking to the BBC, British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the vaccine is not yet ready, however he is preparing logistics for the possible roll out for when suspects the vaccine will be ready in the first half of next year.
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