Covid Variants a Reminder That Pandemic Is Global: Johns Hopkins

The transcript discusses the challenges of vaccine nationalism during the global pandemic, emphasizing the importance of controlling virus replication worldwide to prevent mutations. It highlights the efficacy of the Novavax vaccine, particularly against the South African variant, and considers the potential need for annual vaccine updates similar to influenza. The discussion concludes with optimism about the strong immune responses generated by current vaccines, suggesting that frequent updates may not be necessary.

What is a major concern if the virus is allowed to replicate unchecked?

• It will become more visible to the immune system.

• It will stop spreading.

• It will become less contagious.

• It may mutate and evade vaccine-induced immunity.

What was the efficacy of the Novavax vaccine in the UK study?

• 50%

• 90% or more

• 80% or more

• 60%

Why is the South African variant particularly concerning to scientists?

• It spreads faster in colder climates.

• It is less sensitive to the vaccine.

• It causes more severe symptoms.

• It is more contagious than other variants.

How does the mutation rate of coronavirus compare to that of influenza?

• Coronavirus mutates slower than influenza.

• Coronavirus mutates faster than influenza.

• Coronavirus does not mutate.

• Coronavirus mutates at the same rate as influenza.

What is the hope regarding the need for annual vaccine updates?

• That they will be needed every two years.

• That they will be necessary every year.

• That they will not be needed annually.

• That they will be needed every six months.