Oxford University Covid-19 vaccine update: Trials show promising results in monkeys
The entire world is currently battling the Coronavirus (Covid-19). Many treatments and vaccines are being researched at a rapid pace in an attempt to end the pandemic. Researchers from Oxford University, UK are also engaged in this exercise. The Covid-19 vaccine developed by the University has given encouraging results in six monkeys.
Although the trial has been carried out on a small scale, its effect has been found to be protective. Now this vaccine is being tested on humans. More than 100 vaccines are currently in operation to fight the corona virus worldwide.
Possibility seen to stop the effect of virus
Researchers associated with the CHADOX1 NCOV-19 trial say that the vaccine has shown potential to stop the effects of this dangerous virus in the immune system of the monkeys. No adverse effects of the vaccine were also seen.
According to the study, a single dose of vaccine can also protect against damage to the lungs and organs that the corona virus can severely affect. Researchers found that some of the monkeys developed antibodies in 14 days after applying the vaccine and some of them in 28 days. This vaccine prevented the virus from forming and growing its own copies in the body, but it was also found that the corona was still active in the nose.
Viral pneumonia was not detected in any monkey due to vaccine
Researchers said, ‘One-time immunization found the immune system in the monkey to be able to induce a fluid and cytological response. We did not detect viral pneumonia in any monkey due to the vaccine. Apart from this, there is no indication that animals became more vulnerable due to vaccine. This achievement of the study is being seen as a positive sign’. However, experts warn that it is to be seen whether it is equally effective in humans.
Eagerly awaiting test results
Professor Dr. Penny Ward of King’s College London said, “These results support the ongoing testing of the vaccine on humans.” The result is eagerly awaited. “I am very confident about the success of this vaccine,” said Sarah Gilbert, professor of vaccinology at Oxford University, who led the study. It is expected that the results of the vaccine testing on humans may come by next month.
Sarah Gilbert, who is leading the research, has previously stated that she has gained a high degree of confidence with the vaccine. Of course we have to test it and get data from humans. We have to demonstrate that actually works. The vaccine has to be used to prevent the corona virus from being infected in a wider population.
