Question

Will the COVID-19 vaccines work against the new variant viruses?

11 January 2021. Related: All topics, COVID-19.

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

Some researchers think the vaccines will still be effective against new variants.

This includes the recent variations that were first reported in the UK, South Africa and Brazil. However, this is still the subject of intense research.

Many viruses make small changes over time. This is just part of how viruses evolve. Although most changes are not important, they can sometimes make the virus easier to transmit.

This recent study also says that mRNA vaccines should be easy to modify if more difficult strains develop.

See these links for more detailed information:

What are the main COVID-19 variants and will they affect vaccines?
https://i-base.info/qa/16950

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine might still overcome UK and SA variants.
https://i-base.info/htb/39652

This is one of more than 65 questions about COVID vaccines. It was produced by and for people living with HIV.
Q&A on COVID vaccines: are they safe and effective?
https://i-base.info/qa/16330