The Pfizer vaccine may be up to 40 times less effective against Omicron than the original COVID strain, the first lab tests on the new variant in South Africa have shown.

But while its ability to escape vaccine antibodies is significant, it’s not complete, and that’s good news, says Professor Alex Sigal, virologist at the Africa Health Research Institute, who led the research.

The study found antibodies from people who had been vaccinated as well as naturally infected with COVID were significantly more effective against Omicron – suggesting boosters may bring a significant benefit.

Its ability to escape the vaccine was between five and 10 times better than the Beta, (informally named South African) strain, which previously had the best ability to evade the jab.

Professor Sigal, who heads up the team conducting the tests, believes it’s likely Omicron has both an immune escape and a transmission advantage over other variants.

The study is very limited, having looked at blood samples from just 12 people, but it’s the first evidence we have about how effective vaccinations could be against the new variant.

Related posts:

Catalan separatists pardoned by Spanish PM looking for ‘reconciliation’ Why India is concerned about ‘Delta plus’ variant and a third wave – as 41 cases detected in UK Missing toddler found alive by journalist sent to cover disappearance China shuts down city of 9.3 million over 17 COVID cases – as it rejects call for Wuhan lab investigation Yellow Wiggle to quit children’s music group after 11 years Stunning pictures show inside otherworldly ice caves appearing in the Austrian Alps Brazil’s president should face homicide charges over 95,000 COVID-19 deaths, draft report finds Russian aircraft ‘buzzed’ Royal Navy aircraft carrier, says defence minister, as sea search continues for ditched stealth fighter ‘It’s a crime’: Deforestation in Brazilian Amazon reaches highest level since 2006 Missing Chinese tennis player purportedly seen in video released by state media Players can protest about human rights at Qatar World Cup, says tournament boss Austria begins another national lockdown as COVD tightens its grip and protests spread across Europe