Toronto to ramp up COVID-19 vaccine clinic operations in response to Omicron research
TORONTO – A study led by researchers from the University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children has determined that the COVID-19 vaccine will work in multiple dosing formats and that there are no limitations on how many doses can be given.
This is the initial clinical trial for a COVID-19 vaccine based on DNA plasmid technology that has been licensed by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC). (https://t.co/W7HkzRwLjM)
The study showed that the vaccine is safe and can prevent infection in animal models with no side effects as tested in an antibody titer test and will be a good option for an anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody test in humans in the near future.
The study also found that the virus is circulating in Toronto but with lower levels than when Toronto was declared SARS-CoV-2-free.
Research that demonstrates antibody testing is not going to be performed within the next 12 months is a concern to some scientists from the field of disease and vaccine response, including immunologist Dr. George O’Boyle and Dr. Thomas Geiger.
“If we’re going to be able to test the antibody level in patients, we’re going to have to do it on a regular basis. The current antibody test that we have is going to be inadequate,” said Dr. O’Boyle.
Dr. O’Boyle said it is important to have a long-term plan for such testing, and that it will be part of the COVID-19 vaccine development program.
Dr. Geiger said the lack of antibody testing needs to be addressed and said he plans to be involved.
The next Phase III clinical trial by researchers from University Health Network (UHN), the Hospital for Sick Children and the University of Manitoba will determine if the vaccine can prevent infection, but O’Boyle cautioned the data from the trial are preliminary and not a final decision on vaccine.
The UHN, the Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Manitoba and Global Vaccine Access have been awarded an international trial to study the COVID-19 vaccine.
“There are a lot of questions we’re
