Novavax: Large study finds COVID-19 shot about 90% effective

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP

By LINDA A. JOHNSON

Vaccine maker Novavax said Monday its shot was highly effective against COVID-19 and also protected against variants in a large, late-stage study in the U.S. and Mexico.

The vaccine was about 90% effective overall and preliminary data showed it was safe, the company said.

While demand for COVID-19 shots in the U.S. has dropped off dramatically, the need for more vaccines around the world remains critical. The Novavax vaccine, which is easy to store and transport, is expected to play an important role in boosting vaccine supplies in the developing world.

That help is still months away, however. The company says it plans to seek authorization for the shots in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere by the end of September and be able to produce up to 100 million doses a month by then.



FILE - In this Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, file photo, a vial of the Phase 3 Novavax coronavirus vaccine is seen ready for use in the trial at St. George's University hospital in London. Novavax says its vaccine appears effective against COVID-19 in a large study, including against variants. Results from the study in the U.S. and Mexico were released on Monday, June 14, 2021. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File)


Read more: https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-business-health-02b977b3ed5cfa59643bef1baabde4f7

[lagomorph777]

1. Good news, especially for places with limited infrastructure.

I wonder whether we can do anything to speed this up.

[LisaL]

2. Also, for booster shots, which we will likely need.

Since variants are spreading.

[lagomorph777]

3. Yes - I hope all the vaccine makers are working on the first update.

[LisaL]

6. I know that Moderna is.

That's the vaccine I got. But presumably we should be able to mix and match, and get the boosters from other vaccine makers (and not necessarily those of our original vaccine).

[lagomorph777]

7. That might even be smartest - little variations can trigger more responses.

[cadoman]

4. this will more effectively reach some of the vaccine hesitant too

No mRNA or induced spike protein production. Not sure what % of the population is rejecting vaccination for this (1000% scientifically invalid) reason, but it will be one more choice that will save a few more lives through vaccination.

https://abcnews.go.com/Health/novavax-covid-19-vaccine-works-things/story?id=78265207

[LisaL]

5. Novavax vaccine contains an already produced spike protein.

So it's not going to help if people are afraid of spike protein.