Australian scientists question the efficacy of Astrogeneca vaccine

Input 2021.01.13 16:33 | Revision 2021.01.13 16:42

Some Australian scientists have questioned the efficacy of a vaccine jointly developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca to their governments.

According to the Financial Times (FT) on the 13th (local time), the opposition Labor Party and some immunologists argued that more Pfizer, Modena, or vaccines, which are recognized as having a higher corona prevention effect than AstraZeneca vaccine, should be introduced.

They argued that the AstroZeneca vaccine was less effective in preventing population immunity. Several experts agreed and urged the introduction of the AstraZeneca vaccine to be stopped.

Australia’s contracted AstraZeneca vaccine is the largest of all vaccines secured in 53 million doses. The Anglo-Swedish pharmaceutical company said the Astrogeneca vaccine achieved an average of 70% efficacy. This is a small number compared to Pfizer, which Australia has only secured 10 million doses, achieved more than 90% efficacy.

“Until more data are available that AstroZeneca is as effective as other vaccines, there is a risk that the AstroZeneca vaccine may not form population immunity,” said Andrew Miller, president of the Western Australian Medical Association.

He added that it is necessary to build trust in the public by introducing highly effective vaccines such as Pfizer and Modena. “Australia has relatively controlled COVID-19, unlike the United Kingdom and the United States, so there is time to wait for the best vaccine.”

However, the Australian government is in a position that it will not withdraw its vaccination policy against COVID-19.

“The AstroZeneca vaccine is a safe, effective, and high-quality vaccine,” said Paul Kelly, chief medical officer in Australia. “If the drug authorities approve it in February, we will get it right away.”

Stephen Turner, president of the Australian and New Zealand Immunology Society, said, “Pfizer and Modena vaccines may appear to be a better option,” he said. “However, there are practical difficulties because the Pfizer vaccine must be stored at -70 degrees Celsius.” “Astrogeneca vaccine, which can be stored up to 8 degrees, can be of great help in the short term.”

Meanwhile, the Korean government has purchased 10 million AstraZeneca vaccines in advance.