Pfizer’s CEO, Albert Bourla, said that, from what we have information so far, a fourth dose of the Covid vaccine will be needed and, possibly, an annual booster of the immunizer.
Despite this, the few available data and experts point out that perhaps only certain populations can benefit from the new additional dose.
“From what we’ve seen, the fourth dose is necessary. Now, the protection we have from the third dose is pretty good in terms of hospitalizations and deaths. But it’s not so good against infections and it doesn’t last very long. We’re submitting that data to the FDA. [agência americana de drogas e alimentos] and we’ll see what the experts outside of Pfizer will say,” Bourla told CBS News’ Face the Nation.
In addition, the CEO also stated that the pharmaceutical company is working on the development of a protective immunizer against the variants, including the omicron – the current vaccines against Covid were developed on the original Sars-CoV-2 initially observed in Wuhan, China, and that spread to the world. “But also something to protect for at least a year,” Bourla said.
That way, it would be easier to achieve something close to the life that was known before the Covid pandemic.
Israel, Canada, Denmark and Chile are among the countries in which fourth doses are already offered.
There is still little data available on the real impact of the new dose. A small study, with 274 health professionals, still without peer review, showed an increase in protection (taken here as the number of antibodies) against Covid contamination after the fourth dose of mRNA vaccines (both Pfizer and Moderna), but at levels similar to those seen at the peak with the third dose. There was, however, a low impact on infection prevention.
According to researchers, although the general population may not benefit sufficiently from a new dose, some more fragile population groups could in fact benefit.
In Brazil, for example, the fourth dose is indicated for immunosuppressed patients over 12 years of age.
Chad-98Weaver, a distinguished author at NewsBulletin247, excels in the craft of article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for storytelling, Chad delivers informative and engaging content that resonates with readers across various subjects. His contributions are a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field of journalism.
