Sheffield study shows single Pfizer dose generates strong immune response against Covid

A new study has found a single dose of the Pfizer vaccine generates a strong immunity response against Covid-19.
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The research, led by the University of Oxford and the University of Sheffield, tested 237 healthcare workers for T-cell and antibody responses and discovered a “robust” reaction in 99 per cent of them.

It also found people who had previously been infected with Covid-19 showed higher T-cell and antibody responses after one dose of the Pfizer vaccine compared with people who had a first dose without contracting coronavirus before.

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The researchers said the in-depth study, carried out between December 9 and February 9, suggested a single dose of Pfizer protected against severe disease, although it is unknown how long the protection lasts.

Nurse Practitioner Terri Welch administers a dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine  (Photo by Lindsey Parnaby / AFP) (Photo by LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP via Getty Images)Nurse Practitioner Terri Welch administers a dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine  (Photo by Lindsey Parnaby / AFP) (Photo by LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP via Getty Images)
Nurse Practitioner Terri Welch administers a dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine (Photo by Lindsey Parnaby / AFP) (Photo by LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP via Getty Images)

They added that protection levels were even stronger after a second dose of the vaccine and urged those who have had their first dose to return for the second.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

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