Oxford research enters final testing of COVID vaccine
The coronavirus pandemic has affected every part of the world and the resulting lockdowns have caused unprecedented disruption. Although many countries are managing to contain the virus, the economy has already suffered in a big way; it could take a long while for it to recover, which means that job losses and difficult times lay ahead. Even if there is a second wave, a second lockdown could spell disaster for the global economy and the economic impact could be far worse than the impact of the virus itself.
Most experts agree the only realistic way to get through the crisis and return to normal is through vaccine development. Although vaccine development is a lengthy process, the situation looks promising as researchers at Oxford University, having entered the final phase of trials.
Details on the first and second vaccine trial phases
The first and second phases of trials took place in England in April with promising results. The immune responses in healthy individuals aged 18 to 55 were tested and it was found that the vaccine was successful. However, a final phase of testing must be carried out before the vaccine can be rolled out worldwide.
This final phase of testing is currently underway in Brazil. Volunteers are being administered with the vaccine and if this testing phase is also successful, further tests will be carried out in the UK, the US, and South Africa. Researchers aim to gather 50,000 volunteers for these studies and if they are successful, the team at Oxford will apply for initial registration with the MHRA so the vaccine can be certified for use.
Moderna also in final testing phases of vaccine
Oxford isn’t the only place where vaccines are under development. A team in the US at the biotech firm, Moderna, is also in the final testing phases. They hope to conduct a successful study and have the vaccine approved by the National Institute for Health.
However, even though a vaccine will help avoid a second lockdown, there are many concerns about the vaccine’s motives. For example, the Debt to Success System enshrouds Bill Gates scam and raises concerns about potential ulterior motives behind the vaccine. Many people share concerns about the legitimacy of the vaccines. When they do finally roll out, there will be a lot of people that will not take it.
Although the vaccines are in their final testing stages, the manufacturing process and roll-out take some time. There are also many people that are unwilling to take the vaccine even when it is available. Unfortunately, this means that there is a distinct risk of a second wave of COVID-19 hitting the world. Unfortunately, we are already seeing an increase in cases in certain countries, like Spain. This is incredibly dangerous because it means that the governments in many countries may decide to impose a second lockdown. Moreover, this could have a far-reaching effect on the economy spanning years to come.
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