Jahnavi Sarma
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Jahnavi Sarma | Published : August 28, 2021 8:03 PM IST
After any infection, the human body generates antibodies capable of fighting that infection. These antibodies can last for varying lengths of time. The same is true in the case of COVID-19 infection. People who catch the disease too develop antibodies that make them immune to the virus for some time. According to a recent study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the immune response after a single dose of Covaxin in people who were infected with COVID-19 is similar to the immune response after 2 shots in healthy people without any prior history of COVID-19 infection. In other words, people who were already infected with the COVID-19 virus while taking a dose of India's indigenous vaccine Covaxin have the same or increased antibody response as seen in unaffected people taking two doses of Covaxin.
The ICMR had conducted this pilot study to find out about the COVID-19 specific antibody responses after day 0 (baseline before vaccination), one month after the first dose and 2 months after the first dose of the vaccine in a group of healthcare professionals and frontline workers. Researchers compared the antibody responses of individuals with confirmed pre-vaccination SARS-CoV-2 infection with people without prior evidence of infection. For the purpose of the study, researchers collected blood specimens prior to the first dose from healthcare professionals and frontline workers who received Covaxin at vaccination centres in Chennai, India, during February to May 2021. Prior infection was determined by SARS-CoV-2 IgG positivity at baseline. The Ethics Committee of ICMR-NIRT approved of the study.
Researchers measured antibody levels at three time points: on the day of vaccination (baseline), one month following the first dose and 2 months following the first dose. Researchers used the calibration curve to determine the results. The calibration curve is an instrument specifically generated by two-point calibration and a master curve provided via the reagent QR code.
Almost all participants with prior Covid-19 infection had detectable antibodies at the time of vaccination. This study offers evidence in support of public health-oriented and immunologically sustained vaccine strategies.
According to Lokesh Sharma, Scientist and Media Coordinator, ICMR, "This is a pilot study. If such findings are confirmed in large population studies, a single dose of BBV152 vaccine may be recommended to previously confirmed Covid patients so that the naA-ve individuals could attain the larger benefit of a limited vaccine supply."
(With inputs from IANS)
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.