The Omicron variant is spreading so fast that surely some people often wonder about the effectiveness of preventive measures.
It is indeed disappointing to hear that Omicron infects people who have been vaccinated or given a booster dose. It seems that in some of us the vaccines against COVID-19 work strongly even against Omicron, while in others the effect is weaker.
A recent study by researchers at Harvard and MIT in Boston, USA, highlighted the spectacular diversity of the human immune system, which is also genetically regulated.
The Doctors of the Therapeutic Clinic of the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Lina Paschou (Assistant Professor of Endocrinology), Theodora Psaltopoulou (Professor of Therapeutic-Epidemiology-Preventive Medicine) and Thanos Aigatopis-Ka. results of this study. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.01.04.21268586v1
The role of lymphocytes
The researchers took blood samples from 76 volunteers to test for a subset of immune system cells known as T lymphocytes.
The researchers isolated the participants’ T lymphocytes and exposed them to various SARS-CoV-2 variants in experimental test tubes. They found that in 4 of 5 people (80%) the vaccine resulted in T cells that functioned just as well against the Omicron mutation compared to other variants. But in 1 in 5 people (20%) T lymphocytes were much less effective against the Omicron mutation, even though they worked well against the original variants. However, it was observed that the booster dose satisfactorily increased the T lymphocyte responses in the Omicron spike.
When our body encounters the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, either after infection or after vaccination, some cells, known as antigen-presenting cells, display portions of the viral protein externally in T lymphocytes.
This process is based on proteins called HLA. Each of us has different genes that encode the HLA complex. Genetic differences, therefore, may contribute to the differences and the immune response. Also, while antibodies decrease over time, T lymphocytes provide a second line of defense, specifically cellular defense, that lasts longer. They are the main cells responsible for the so-called immune memory. Many experts consider them the most critical parameter of our defense against the Omicron variant.
20% have lower protection against vaccines against Omicron
In conclusion, 20% of people have lower protection against vaccines against Omicron due to a less effective T cell response.
But they are still better off than the unvaccinated people, especially those who have received a booster dose.
The optimistic reading of the new study is that 80% of vaccinated people still have a very good immune response to the Omicron variant
Latest News
Critical Week for Greece-Cyprus Cable
The study concluded that the social benefits of the interconnection, totaling 8 billion euros, far outweigh its 1.9 billion euros construction cost, resulting in a net social benefit exceeding 6 billion euros.
Roberta Metsola Re-elected President of European Parliament
Her second term will be for a period of two and a half years
ELSTAT: 1.5% Increase in Business Turnover in May 2024
The most significant increase in turnover in May 2024 compared with May 2023 was recorded from the enterprises of the Accommodation and Food Service Activities, sector which grew by 14.8%.
Cosco: Container Traffic Decline at Piraeus Port Continues
This strategic shift has diminished Piraeus's standing as a prominent Mediterranean port and a key transshipment hub post-Suez Canal.
Gov’t Eyes Return of Power Subsidies Amid Spike in Rates
According to reports, the government will resume an electricity subsidization program, given that forecasts cite disruptions – i.e. higher rates
ELSTAT: 6.3% Increase in Output Price Index for Agriculture and Livestock
The 6.3% rise in May 2024 is largely driven by an 8.8% increase in the crop output group, particularly due to changes in olive oil prices, and a 0.5% increase in the animal output group.
Balkans Blackout Highlights Climate Threats to Power Grids
The surge in electricity demand during the heat wave and the power deficit in Balkan markets have driven up prices in the Greek wholesale electricity market.
Greece in Top 4 Destinations Favored by European Tourists
Greece was selected by 5.9% of respondents who were asked where they would vacation this year, up from 5.4% in the same survey last year
Scope Affirms Greece’s BBB- Ratings; Revises Outlook to Positive
The international ratings firm raised Greece to investment grade in early August 2023
First Seaplane Test Flights to Skopelos, Alonissos, Skyros
After decades of on-again, off-again efforts to schedule regular seaplane routes to Greece's numerous island and coastal destinations the prospect now appears within sight