Alexander Gintsburg, director of the Gamaleya Research Institute in Russia, has reportedly announced the effectiveness of Russia’s Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine in some recipients.
According to Mr. Gintsburg, the recently developed vaccine has induced immune response against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease, following the 1st vaccination. Sources familiar with the matter have stated that a 2nd dose is required to further protect the immunity of these people.
Developed by the Gamaleya Center, the Sputnik V vaccine is the world’s 1st registered vaccine against COVID-19. It is an adenovirus-based vector vaccine that needs to be administered in 2 doses.
Mr. Gintsburg added that the development of immunity for the virus depends upon the individuals’ reactions to both the infection and the vaccine. The 1st vaccination can help produce antibodies that will be protective against the disease among some vaccine recipients, which will last for 2 weeks. After this, the 2nd dose will be provided to further extend the disease protection. He also revealed that any infection that might occur between the 1st and 2nd shots will come in a weaker form.
He further stated that the recipients need not self-isolate or limit contacts. However, the booster shots for the vaccine would be required every 2 years to further drive immune response against the virus.
Researchers at Gamaleya Institute are currently performing the post-registration trials of the Sputnik V vaccine among nearly 42,000 elderly and high-risk groups or volunteers.
As per reliable reports, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd, an Indian pharmaceutical company, is set to commence the late-stage trials of the Sputnik V vaccine in the coming weeks in India. Moreover, the RDIF (Russian Direct Investment Fund) and the company have entered an agreement to collaborate on the trials and subsequently distribute the vaccine across the country.
Upon receiving the regulatory approvals, RDIF has agreed to supply 100 million vaccine doses to Dr Reddy’s in India.
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