Omicron: GP explains ‘overwhelming’ science behind vaccines
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The jab is the latest in the UK’s NHS vaccine success story, which has already delivered more than 138 million doses into the arms of Brits eager to defend themselves against the deadly coronavirus. The jab, made by US firm Novavax, uses different technology to other widely available vaccines and is based on protein rather than genetic material from the virus.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “It is great to see our world-renowned medicines regulator approve another COVID-19 vaccine.
“I want the UK to be the best place in the world to conduct clinical trials.
“It’s a testament to the country’s first-rate research and development capabilities for vaccines – with tens of thousands of people taking part in clinical trials here in the UK, contributing to the invaluable research that shows our vaccines are safe and effective.
“The next step will be for the independent Joint Committee on Immunisation and Vaccination to consider its use as part of the UK COVID-19 vaccination programme”
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Is there anything different about Novavax?
The Novavax jab is a protein-based vaccine, and it uses more established vaccine technology than others.
Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed, Chair of the independent Commission on Human Medicines, said: “We are pleased to say that we have advised that the benefit-risk balance of Nuvaxovid is positive.
“Nuvaxovid is distinct from other COVID-19 vaccines currently in use in the UK as it uses recombinant protein-based technology which has been used for many years in the development of vaccines to prevent other illnesses, for example, Hepatitis B.
“In reaching its decision, the MHRA considered the results of two large clinical trials involving nearly 50,000 participants.”
Clinical trials suggest two doses of the Novavax jab have an efficacy of about 90 percent against symptomatic Covid, similar to the other approved UK vaccines.
A recent study by Novavax suggests its protection holds up considerably better against Omicron than some other vaccines, meaning it may be able to provide broader protection from any emergent variants in the future.
It’s also been backed for having less side effects than the likes of Moderna and Pfizer – with trial data appearing to show lower rates of fatigue, headaches and muscle pain – which could encourage those who still haven’t had the vaccine to come forward.
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Who can have the Novavax vaccine?
At present, no one – because it is yet to be approved by the JCVI.
When it is made available, all those aged 18 and over will be able to get the Novavax vaccine if they need it for a first or second dose.
It is thought that factoring in manufacturing and approval, the vaccine could be in use in the UK by March.
You cannot get additional jabs if you have already had two initial doses and a booster.
The Novavax vaccine is already in use in Northern Ireland.
The UK Vaccine Taskforce placed an order for 60 million doses in 2020 and it’s possible it could be used as a booster, should one be needed, next autumn and winter.
Across the UK, more than 52 million people have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine.
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