Oxford Covid Vaccine Shows Strong Protection for Over-70s
Early trials of Oxford University’s Covid-19 vaccine reveal it triggers a powerful immune response in older adults. This is a major breakthrough for those most at risk of severe illness or death from the virus, according to data published in The Lancet.
Older Adults Build Strong Immunity
The phase one and two trials involved around 560 healthy volunteers aged 18 to over 70. Results show similar levels of neutralising antibodies and T cell responses across all age groups, including the 70+ bracket.
Participants received two doses of the vaccine or a placebo. Encouragingly, no adverse health issues were reported during the trials, boosting hopes for a safe rollout to vulnerable groups soon.
Pfizer Also Scores Big Over 65
The Oxford results come just a day after Pfizer announced its vaccine hit an impressive 94% efficacy in adults over 65. Pfizer is now rushing to secure approval, adding to the race to protect the elderly first.
Japan Sounds Alarm Over Rising Cases
Meanwhile, Japan is on high alert after hitting a record daily Covid count. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga revealed 2,201 new infections on the 1st, nearly 500 of them in Tokyo, a city of 14 million.
The capital has been pushed to the top of a four-tier warning system, though no fresh restrictions or business closures are planned just yet. Testing remains limited compared to other nations, but the sharp rise has officials nervous.
“We are now in a situation of maximum alert,” Suga warned. “I ask everyone to wear masks, even while talking during meals.”
With vaccines showing promise in seniors and cases surging in parts of Asia, the next few weeks are critical in the global fight against Covid-19.
