Worried about the long-term effects of the vaccine? Prof Tulio explains
There are multiple questions people have regarding vaccinations as they occur nationwide. Fortunately, Prof Tulio can answer these extensively.
'Wednesday' means one thing - Prof Tulio de Oliveira join us on the show. He is a globally acclaimed virologists, virus hunter and bioinformatician. He joins us from KRISP (Kwazulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platforming) at UKZN. There are multiple questions people have regarding vaccinations as they occur nationwide. Fortunately, Prof Tulio can answer these extensively.
It has recently been announced that pregnant women can now register for the vaccine. You may wonder how much vaccine efficacy testing has been done on pregnant women, though? Prof Tulio highlights that countries that started their vaccinations before us have had favourable results in this regard.
READ MORE: "The vaccine is very effective against the Delta variant" - Prof Tulio
We also learn from the Professor that since the UK is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases and restrictions are lifted in some areas, the vaccine's value and efficiency might be truly identified in this "natural experiment", as he calls it. He explains how researchers would go about this process, especially as the EURO 2020 games occur.
Some people are still asking how long they should wait until they receive the second jab of vaccination after their first, so the Professor shares an approximate time in our session with him this morning.
READ MORE: Severe symptoms to look out for when self-isolating - Prof Tulio shares
A certain social media post has been doing the rounds alleging the vaccines to contain the Delta variant of the COVID-19. Professor Tulio firmly advises listeners that this is a false statement. He adds credibility to this in sharing about the tragic third wave that India experienced with the Delta variant was when they did not have any vaccines at their disposal. Listen to Prof Tulio as he shares the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Beta variant and the Delta variant.
Now, finally, what most people are most curious about is why there is so much certainty that the vaccines will not have long term effect - in 2 or 3 years, maybe. He answers this question by doing a break down of the production process of the vaccines, including the testing processes. This should ease any doubt that some people have regarding the side effects matter.
Take a listen:
If you have any question for Professor Tulio de Oliveira for the following week, simply WhatsApp your question to 061 792 9495.
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