COVID-19: The role of next-generation vaccines in immunity

Posted in: COVID-19, Healthcare system, Latest, Science

Indications are that the virus that causes COVID-19 is going to continue evolving and escaping the protection against infection people already have. Researchers are working on next-generation vaccines tailored to fight off specific versions of the virus, like the Omicron sub-lineages BA.4 and BA.5. But can these new vaccines be tested and produced fast enough to keep up with the rapidly changing virus? Aisha Abdool Karim asked some local experts.

COVID-19: The role of next-generation vaccines in immunity

We need to vaccinate 90% of over-35s – Madhi

Posted in: COVID-19, Healthcare system, Latest

Government can avoid the overwhelming of health services and minimise death in an anticipated fourth COVID-19 wave in November/December by getting 90% of people in South Africa over 35 years old vaccinated before then. Life could then return to normal by Christmas, even with ongoing SARS-CoV-2 circulation, contends vaccinologist Professor Shabir Madhi.

We need to vaccinate 90% of over-35s – Madhi

COVID-19 in kids: What have we learnt one year later?

Posted in: Latest

It has been over a year since the world saw the first confirmed case of COVID-19, yet the science behind the virus’ physical impact on children remains relatively unclear. Kathryn Cleary spoke to two experts in paediatrics and immunology to get an update on what we have learnt so far.

COVID-19 in kids: What have we learnt one year later?

COVID-19: The evolving science behind long-COVID

Posted in: Latest

A study published in the Lancet medical journal confirms that the health effects of COVID-19 can linger months after someone has ‘recovered’. Kathryn Cleary asked local experts about the underlying science and whether the South African public healthcare system is ready for so-called long-COVID.

COVID-19: The evolving science behind long-COVID

COVID-19: Millions of injection devices will be needed for vaccines

Posted in: Access to Medicines, Healthcare system, Healthcare Workers, Latest

The delivery of a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine once it becomes available in South Africa will be a complex and costly logistical exercise. Acquiring enough injection devices is part of crucial logistical planning to ensure rapid, equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. Adele Baleta reports.

COVID-19: Millions of injection devices will be needed for vaccines

Herd (Immunity) Today, Gone Tomorrow

Posted in: Latest

There is much talk in South Africa about a ‘second wave’ of COVID-19. In Europe, it is much more than talk, with COVID-19 diagnoses, hospital admissions, and deaths, not to mention ‘restrictions’, all on the rise. Alex Welte places in perspective what we do and do not know about herd immunity and potential second waves.

COVID-19 Report 6: What does herd immunity mean for South Africa?

Posted in: Spotlight

This is issue 6 of COVID-19 Report. We point you to the latest quality science on the pandemic. Are schools safe? Hydroxychloroquine does not prevent COVID-19 and much more can be found in this issue.