The European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved combining different types of vaccines against the COVID-19 coronavirus.
The EMA indicated in a statement that the use of different types of vaccines, a process known as heterologous vaccination, can offer protection against COVID-19.
The announcement comes as in much of Europe cases of the virus, hospitalizations and fears for the new omicron variant are increasing.
The EMA, along with the European Center for Disease Control, stated that the use of various vaccines could give countries more options in their vaccination campaigns as the continent tries to slow the spread of the virus.
“The evidence available so far with the different types of licensed vaccines indicates that heterologous vaccines have the same or better effect, in terms of immune response, than homologous vaccines“Said the agencies in their statement.
“While research continues to elucidate long-term safety, duration, and efficacy, the use of heterologous vaccines could offer flexibility in options, particularly by reducing the impact on a vaccination campaign in the event that one type of vaccine vaccine is not available for some reason”, They added.
The agencies examined mRNA-type vaccines like Pfizer’s, and viral vector vaccines like Johnson & Johnson’s. Both inoculations use different mechanisms to stimulate the body’s immune response.
The United States and the United Kingdom have already approved the use of different types of vaccines.
.
Ricardo is a renowned author and journalist, known for his exceptional writing on top-news stories. He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he is known for his ability to deliver breaking news and insightful analysis on the most pressing issues of the day.
