This is the first time mRNA vaccines have shown promising results in human trials

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Issue 42: 24 November 2020
Every week, HEADlines brings you the latest news, stories and commentaries
in education and healthcare. This week, get insights on the latest developments
in healthcare.
 
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COVID-19 mRNA vaccines - why is it such a big deal?

Moderna and Pfizer made headlines last week with both Phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trials reporting efficacy of about 95%, bringing hope to the world that the pandemic has finally reached a turning point. 

What makes this such a landmark situation is how quickly the vaccines have been developed and tested. What would typically have taken 8-10 years to develop has now been accelerated to within a year, with both companies seeking FDA authorisation for emergency use of the vaccines as soon as December.  

Also noteworthy is that both companies are employing the messenger RNA (mRNA) method to develop their vaccines - a gene-based technology that uses a snippet of the coronavirus' genome to encourage antibody protection. This is the first time any vaccine has been made using the mRNA technology and approved for human use. Hailed as a disruptive drug platform, the road leading to the use of mRNA drugs has been fraught with difficulties, given the risks and unknowns of an unproven technology that seeks to intervene with the "software of life".

Healthcare professionals though are not all quick to jump on the bandwagon in the midst of the hype. Doctors are calling for more published data and evidence before making a decision.

There are concurrently 46 other COVID-19 vaccines being tested in human trials, which are developed using different technologies including traditional methods. Which will work better? Only time will tell. Perhaps the best approach that countries can take now is to build a diversified portfolio of vaccines that will benefit and provide options for its people. 
 
Healthcare in the Spotlight
There are obstacles to a COVID-19 vaccine reaching the world’s poorest, including lack of funds, electricity and cold storage.
Eight months after infection, most people who have recovered still have enough immune cells to fend off the COVID-19 virus and prevent illness.
Protecting memory, maintaining blood vessel function and reducing neuro-inflammation are just some of ways that regular exercise benefits the brain.
Early research suggests that poor gut health disrupts normal function of the brain-gut axis, contributing to the development of neurological disorders like dementia and Alzheimer's.
A traditional Chinese medicine doctor believes the pancreas of Type 2 diabetics can be regenerated to make insulin, while another says evidence only shows that TCM can control diabetes.
The WHO says there are health benefits for taking climate action in these five priority areas - adaptation & resilience, energy transitions, nature, clean transport, and finance.

That's all for the week!
 
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