The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-Cov-2 coronavirus is the genetically most distant virus type to date from the original pathogens of Covid-19 (wild-type/Wuhan, note). An Austrian research team has now investigated the immune response after infection with the ommicron subtypes BA.1 and BA.2. Conclusion: An infection with it provides only a very “narrow” immunological protection. Vaccination beforehand helps to increase cross-immunity (several variants).
In collaboration with two general practitioners in Völkermarkt (Carinthia) and Ramsau (Styria), Viennese scientists tested the virus neutralizing effect of serum samples (antibodies) from unvaccinated and vaccinated persons after infection with Omikron BA.1 or BA.2 against both subtypes, against wild-type viruses and against the delta variant (B.1.617.2). Serum samples from people after infection with the original Wuhan virus and three partial mRNA vaccinations (with or without previous infection with Covid-19) served as the “control group”.
Almost no cross neutralization
Primary infection with (Omicron; note) BA.1 has been shown to have a reduced neutralizing antibody response against the wild-type virus, against the delta variant and against Omikron BA.2. Samples from BA.2-infected individuals showed almost no cross neutralization against the other variants, the researchers report in the journal Frontiers of Immunology.
After three vaccinations with an RNA vaccine, a neutralizing effect of serum samples against the two omicron subtypes was evident, but weaker. This is probably also the reason for the many omicron infections among vaccinated people in recent weeks and months. However, vaccination prevents particularly severe disease progression.
“Breakthrough Infection” Generates Broad Immune Response
The good news for people who, despite three partial Covid-19 vaccinations in recent months, still got sick as part of the omicron wave: According to the scientists, such a “breakthrough infection” generated a broad cross-reactive immune response against all virus variants tested.
However, if you want to rely on an omicron infection as future protection against SARS-CoV-2 after you haven’t had a Covid-19 vaccination before, you’re probably wrong: the single infection with it apparently only leads to a “close”. ” immune response in any case virus subtype responsible for the disease. Ultimately, these research results support the plan to include both wild-type antigens of the pathogen SARS-CoV-2 and those of the omicron variant in future vaccines.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
