We have heard that there are new, more infectious strains of the coronavirus which causes Covid-19. Although we dub these the “British variant”, “South African variant”, “Brazilian variant” and even now, the “Californian variant” we now know that the British variant is present in most US states and the S. African one is also now in the US.
Although not more lethal, these variants are much more infectious, meaning that you can catch it and spread it much more easily. More numbers = more hospitalizations = more deaths. In addition, those previously infected with the original version seem to be less protected against the S. African variant.
Although the Pfizer vaccine seems to be effective against the British variant, it is less effective against the other ones.
A new vaccine, Novavax, reports that it is 90% effective against the standard version of SARS-Cov-2, it is only 50% against the S. African variant.
Although on the surface this seems bad, we need to keep things in perspective. The flu vaccine available each year is between 30-50%, depending on the strain. So, 50% effective is still pretty darn good. And I would take a 50% better chance of getting really sick.
In addition, keep in mind that creating a vaccine, what usually takes decades, has taken less than a year. Making versions of the vaccine capable of combating the new variants will also occur quickly.
HOWEVER, we MUST slow down the virus. The more it spreads and replicates, the greater the chances of developing even more concerning variants.
So PLEASE continue to be careful and show care and respect for yourself and everyone else by continuing what we know works. MASKS, DISTANCE, WASHING.
Have a great weekend.
Stay safe and be well.
AC