News (1)
How about the vaccines made in Taiwan? Expert analysis of safety and expected effectiveness
Reporter : Su Guanmi / https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/21/6/1/n12991223.htm / Translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
After the outbreak of the local epidemic in Taiwan, the demand for vaccines has become more urgent, and domestic vaccines such as MVC and UBI have also received attention. The types of vaccines made in Taiwan are different from vaccines such as AstraZeneca (AZ) and Moderna, and the development progress is also relatively slow. After all, how is it different?
Taiwanese vaccine adopts traditional protein subunit vaccine technology (PSVT) with 4 characteristics
Compared with Pfizer vaccine, Modena vaccine, AZ vaccine, Johnson & Johnson vaccine, etc., which have been widely used, Taiwan's domestic vaccines have not yet started Phase III clinical trials. Among them, MVC and UBI covi vaccines are expected to lead mass production, while Guoguang Biotech is slightly behind.
Liu Shiren, chief executive of the Biologics Plant of the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccines of the National Institutes of Health, pointed out that Taiwan uses genetically recombinant protein subunit technology, so the development progress is relatively slow.
Protein subunit vaccine technology (PSVT) is a traditional technology with rich experience in practical applications. For example, hepatitis B vaccine and human papilloma virus vaccine all belong to this category. However, it must first select available viral spike proteins through genetic engineering, and then confirm its effect. The development process is much more cumbersome than vaccines such as mRNA and adenovirus vectors. The US Novavax vaccine, which is also a protein subunit vaccine, is not yet on the market.
Adenovirus vector vaccines such as AZ vaccine and Johnson & Johnson, as well as mRNA vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, are all new vaccine forms. Compared with protein subunit vaccines, they are slightly different in terms of antibody production, side effects, and preservation methods.
1. The method of antibody production under PSVT is more straightforward
Adenovirus vector vaccines use adenoviruses that are relatively harmless to the human body, carry the novel coronavirus gene fragments, and inject them into the body to produce viral proteins and make the body produce antibodies.
The mRNA vaccine sends part of the mRNA of the virus into the human body, which stimulates the body to produce the virus-characteristic spike protein, which induces the immune system to produce antibodies.
Protein subunit vaccines directly inject viral spike proteins (or smaller subunits) into the body, allowing the immune system to produce antibodies. This difference will also make protein vaccines produce antibodies slightly faster.
2. Less side effects expected in PSV
The protein subunit vaccine (PSV) directly injects the protein of the virus into the body while the adenovirus vector and mRNA vaccines induce protein in the body after the administration. This difference causes slightly different side effects.
Liu Shiren explained that the side effect is the reaction brought by the vaccine when it activates the immune system, because mRNA vaccines and adenovirus vector vaccines slowly produce proteins in the body. During the process, the immune system needs to be stimulated, so there are larger side effects.
For example, the adenovirus vector vaccine is to inject live adenovirus. After the vaccine is administered, it is first infected by the adenovirus, and symptoms similar to a cold appear. The difference is that after being infected, the virus will not replicate and the symptoms will get better soon.
The MVC and UBI covi vaccine clinical trial phase II data have not yet been released. So the safety is still unclear, but because the PSV has been used for a long time, from past experience, there are relatively few side effects. Most of them are common side effects such as fatigue, headache and pain at the injection site.
3. Fewer contraindications
The adenovirus vector vaccine is the first to infect the human body with adenovirus, which has a greater impact on people with low immunity, and may not be suitable for such people. For people with poor health, if they want to administer mRNA vaccines, they may first need to assess whether they can withstand side effects.
The PSV is relatively unrestricted. It can be administered to the elderly, pregnant women, and even AIDS patients with low immunity. However, such people are inherently poor in immunity, and the protection after the vaccine may be weak.
4. Easy to store PSVs
The storage conditions for protein subunit vaccines are relatively simple, just like the AZ vaccine, which only needs to be maintained at 2 to 8 degrees.
Vaccines such as Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, and Pfizer-BioNTech all require ultra-low temperature storage. The storage conditions for Johnson & Johnson vaccines and Moderna vaccines are minus 20 degrees, while Pfizer vaccines are required to be stored at minus 70 degrees.
Image : The storage conditions for protein vaccines are the same as those for AZ vaccines, and only need to be maintained at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. (Joel Saget/AFP via Getty Images)
It can be expected to have a protective effect, and the effectiveness still needs further research
For now, the safety of Taiwanese domestic vaccines is expected to be good, but there is no data on effectiveness.
Liu Shiren said frankly, "Because the number of people infected in Taiwan is relatively small, it is difficult to observe (effectiveness)". Unless some of the participants in clinical trials were infected just after the outbreak in Taiwan, and some did not, some data may be obtained but the number is also very small, and it is still difficult to judge the protection.
In contrast, vaccines such as AZ, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, and Pfizer have all undergone large-scale clinical Phase III trials with as many as 30,000 to 40,000 participants. In addition, it is easy to know that they are in epidemic areas with high infection rates and protection.
However, Taiwan-made vaccines are still worth looking forward to.
Liu Shiren said that according to the results of the first phase of clinical trials of high-end vaccines, the neutralizing antibody produced by the vaccine is slightly higher than the antibody concentration in the body of the infected person after recovery. "From this point of view, the effectiveness can be expected."
Neutralizing antibodies are very important indicators, but he reminded that there are still many unknowns, such as T cells and cellular immunity are also another very important factor. It also depends on whether MVC and UBI vaccines also have such data.
Whether or not the effectiveness data can be presented is a major challenge facing Taiwan's domestic vaccines. In the future, the vaccine manufacturers will still need to find ways to conduct Phase III clinical trials before they can achieve breakthroughs.
Ref: https://staygate.blogspot.com/2021/05/45-kinds-of-good-medicine-kits-for-home.html, https://news.tvbs.com.tw/life/1519606?utm_source=Webpush&utm_medium=Webpush
News (2)
Should the AZ vaccine be used? Protective power, side effects and contraindications
Research Report : Li Hangzhe / https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/21/5/29/n12984138.htm / Direct translation/ Image : Jung Yeon-Je-Pool/Getty Images
AstraZeneca vaccine (Vaxzevria, AZD1222, AZ vaccine for short) is an adenovirus vector vaccine developed for SARS-CoV-2 (covi, CCP virus, novel coronavirus). It has obtained sales licenses or emergency authorizations in more than 50 countries and regions around the world. How protective is the AZ vaccine against covid? What are the side effects? What should I pay attention to before and after vaccination? This article takes you once to understand.
What is the working principle of the AZ vaccine?
The covi vaccines currently on the market or under development are roughly divided into four types: mRNA vaccines, adenovirus vector vaccines, protein subunit vaccines and inactivated vaccines.
AZ vaccine is an adenovirus vector vaccine. Its principle is to use adenovirus (a harmless virus different from the new coronavirus) as a "vector", insert the gene of the covi spike protein into it, and then transport it to humans. in vivo. Then, the body's immune system will respond and produce antibodies. The next time you encounter a real new coronavirus, antibodies will be able to clear the virus.
What is the overall protection and critical protection rate of the AZ vaccine?
Vaccine protection will be changed and adjusted according to different regions of clinical trials, different test conditions, and different subjects.
A comprehensive analysis of the Phase III clinical trials of the AZ vaccine in the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa showed that after the subjects received two doses of the AZ vaccine, the overall protection was 67%. If the second dose of vaccination is completed more than 12 weeks apart, the overall protection can be increased to 81%.
At present, the World Health Organization announced that the AZ vaccine has a 63% protection against symptomatic infections, and said that extending the time between two doses of inoculation can increase the protection.
The severe protection of AZ vaccine is 100%.
In the Phase III clinical trial of the AZ vaccine in the United States, statistics show that the overall protection is 76%, and the protection against severe cases is still 100%. In subjects over 65 years of age, the effectiveness of preventing symptomatic infections reached 85%.
Is the AZ vaccine still effective against variant viruses?
The covi mutation may affect the protection of the vaccine. At present, the CCP virus has variants first identified in the UK, South Africa variant, Brazil, India variant, California, etc. For the effectiveness of AZ vaccine in preventing variant viruses, some studies have provided relevant data.
In April this year, a study in The Lancet pointed out that the AZ vaccine has a 70.4% protection against symptomatic infection of B.1.1.7. Another study in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) showed that the protective efficacy of the AZ vaccine against the South African variant virus B.1.351 is approximately 10.4%.
As for the protection of the AZ vaccine against other variant viruses, more research is needed.
What are the side effects after AZ vaccination?
The side effects after AZ vaccination, like other vaccines, are divided into local side effects and systemic side effects.
Local side effects include pain, tenderness, burning, itching or redness at the injection site; and systemic side effects, commonly including fatigue, headache, fever, chills, muscle pain, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
There are also a few people who have side effects such as loss of appetite, dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, excessive sweating, and skin rashes. (Recommended reading: Look at the side effects of the covi vaccine once! You must know before getting the vaccine)
Image : Common side effects and rare thrombosis after vaccination with AZ vaccine are accompanied by the side effects of thrombocytopenia. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
After the AZ vaccine is administered, the 5 types of symptoms are alert to thrombosis
A very small number of people who are injected with the AZ vaccine will have rare side effects such as thrombosis and thrombocytopenia, and they are almost women under 55 years of age.
The thrombus caused by the AZ vaccine is different from the common thrombosis. Most of the thrombosis occurs in the brain veins, and a small number of them occur in the abdomen, liver and other places. When blood clots form in different parts of the body, there will be different symptoms. If the following 5 symptoms occur within 3 weeks after AZ vaccination, be alert to the possibility of thrombosis and seek medical attention as soon as possible:
1. Persistent and severe headache, blurred vision, unconsciousness or epilepsy
2. Bleeding spots, bruises, purple spots, etc. on the skin other than the injection site
3. Chest pain or shortness of breath
4. Swelling and pain in the legs
5. Persistent abdominal pain
But in general, the benefits of the AZ vaccine in preventing covid exceed the risk of side effects caused by it. (Recommended reading: Why does AZ vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine cause thrombosis?)
Who cannot administer the AZ vaccine? What are the taboos?
There are some contraindications to AZ vaccination, and different countries may have slightly different recommendations on this.
The following three categories of people cannot be given the AZ vaccine:
1. Allergic to any of the ingredients in the vaccine.
2. After the first dose of vaccination, a severe allergic reaction occurred.
3. After the first dose of vaccine, a rare thrombosis accompanied by a drop in platelets (Regulations of the European Medicines Agency).
In addition, you need to pay attention before vaccination:
● Patients with fever and acute, moderate to severe disease can only be vaccinated until their condition is stable.
● People who have had thrombocytopenia or abnormal blood coagulation function should carefully assess the risk of thrombosis after injection.
● People with weakened immune function or immunosuppressive therapy may affect the protective effect of the vaccine due to weak immune response.
● Women who are pregnant or likely to become pregnant, as well as women who are breastfeeding, need to ask a doctor to evaluate whether they can be vaccinated.
● Patients who are taking birth control pills or undergoing hormone therapy should postpone vaccination.
● It is not allowed to administer other kinds of vaccines at the same time, and it is not allowed to use vaccines of other brands alternately.
After vaccination with AZ vaccine, you should pay attention to:
● Rest in place, observe for at least 30 minutes, and leave after confirming that there is no condition.
● Those who use antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs, or have abnormal blood coagulation function, should pressurize the injection site for at least 2 minutes after vaccination, and observe the bleeding and hematoma.
● After vaccination, there may be a fever reaction, and the body temperature is higher than 38 degrees Celsius, and it will be relieved in about two days. If fever persists for more than 48 hours, or other severe allergic reactions, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Enough breakthrough progress.
News (3)
Alert! There are 2 major symptoms after vaccination, which may include blood clot
Narration : Dong Yuhong (European virology expert, chief scientist of biotechnology company), edited by Ke Xian / https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/21/4/15/n12882660.htm / Extract translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
Johnson & Johnson vaccine and AZ vaccine have successively experienced thrombosis cases. Which symptoms are worthy of vigilance?
Recently, Johnson & Johnson vaccine and AZ vaccine have successively seen thrombosis cases, causing public concern. What is the reason for thrombosis after vaccination or even death? Which symptoms are worthy of vigilance?
What is a blood clot?
When a clot appears in the blood, blocking the blood vessel and blocking blood circulation, it is a thrombus.
Generally speaking, if a blood clot occurs in the brain, it will cause a stroke; if it occurs in the heart, it will cause a myocardial infarction; if it occurs in the legs, it will be a venous thrombosis in the lower extremities.
However, the blood clots in Johnson & Johnson and AZ vaccines are not the same as common ones. Moreover, there are striking similarities between the two. Let's analyze them one by one.
6 Johnson & Johnson vaccine patients with thrombosis, the main initial symptom is headache
On 13 April, the US FDA and CDC announced that they recommended to suspend the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and investigate the causal relationship between the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and thrombosis.
Among the people who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, 6 people developed severe thrombotic symptoms, which were cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) accompanied by thrombocytopenia. These 6 people are all women, aged between 18 and 48 years old. Symptoms occur 6 to 13 days after vaccination. Among them, one woman died and the other two were in intensive care.
Dr. Tom Shimabukuro, head of vaccine safety of the Covid-19 Response Team of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pointed out that these six people have one main symptom-- headache.
In addition, there is a seventh "probable case". In Johnson & Johnson's clinical trial, a patient who died of a blood clot was also reported.
AZ vaccine thrombosis side effects. What are the details?
Just a week ago, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced the determination of the link between the AZ vaccine and thrombosis, and listed "unusual thrombosis and associated platelet reduction" as a rare side effect of the AZ vaccine.
On 9 April, the New England Journal of Medicine (NEMJ) simultaneously published two medical studies from Germany and Norway, reporting rare and abnormal blood clots in 11 and 5 patients after receiving the first dose of AZ vaccine.
From these two studies on the AZ vaccine, we can see more details. These cases have distinct characteristics:
● Women are obviously more common
● The median age is under 40
● Occurs 1 to 2 weeks after the first injection, which is obviously related to the time of vaccine injection.
● Most patients have headache symptoms.
● Of the 16 reported cases, 9 people died.
They found that AZ vaccine-related thrombosis has two notable features:
Most of the thrombosis occurs in the cerebral veins, and patients have rapid and severe platelet decline.
Platelets are an important component when we do routine blood tests. Although it is small, its function is not small at all. The platelet value of a normal person is 100,000 to 300,000 per microliter (mm3). However, the platelets of these patients fell to less than 1/3 of the lower limit of the normal value on average, which is quite low, which is a very dangerous clinical sign. The lower the drop, the greater the possibility of life-threatening.
We have seen that patients with thrombosis after injection of Johnson & Johnson and AZ vaccines have very similar patterns in their conditions.
What is the cause of blood clots caused by the vaccine?
Then, why did the side effects of thrombosis and platelet decline occur after the injection of AZ vaccine? As the case happened not long ago, there is no clear answer yet. But the two research teams found that these patients had autoimmune phenomena-their bodies produced antibodies to their own platelets and related components. Antibodies wrap up the platelets and are processed by immune cells, resulting in a decrease in platelet exhaustion, accompanied by abnormal thrombosis.
Researchers call this phenomenon "vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia" (VITT).
So, why does the AZ vaccine cause the body to produce autoimmunity against platelets? There is no answer to the deeper reasons. Personally, there are two possibilities:
1. The problem with adenovirus vectors
The AZ vaccine is an adenovirus vector vaccine, using a modified chimpanzee adenovirus as a vector. The medical profession has known before that the combination of adenovirus and platelets can cause platelet activation, which may lead to platelet depletion.
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is also an adenovirus vector vaccine. When the thrombotic side effects of the AZ vaccine surfaced, the US FDA and CDC immediately stopped inoculation of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. This shows that the medical community has concerns about the adenovirus vector vaccine. At present, this possibility cannot be ruled out.
2. The problem of SARS-CoV-2 itself
On the other hand, SARS-CoV-2 has only appeared for more than a year, and because the epidemic is too serious, people have spent a lot of energy on the development of vaccines, and their understanding of the pathological mechanism of the virus itself is still very superficial. Vaccines mimic viruses. The unexpected side effects of vaccines suggest that certain pathological mechanisms of the novel coronavirus in the human body may not be fully understood.
For example, it is generally believed that SARS-CoV-2 enters cells only through the ACE2 receptor. However, a study published in the top medical journal Cell in November 2020 proposed that a co-receptor, heparan sulfate, is needed for viruses to invade cells. Heparan sulfate is a molecule widely found on the surface of cells. In other words, ACE2 is only part of the story, not the whole story.
This incident reminds us that we may need to calm down, seriously think about the safety of vaccines, and reflect on the pros and cons of vaccine development.
How high is the incidence of thrombosis in Johnson & Johnson and AZ vaccines?
So, what is the rate of rare thrombosis caused by the vaccine? As of 4 April, about 10 cases of thrombosis (mainly cerebral venous sinus thrombosis) have occurred in people receiving AZ vaccine in European countries such as the United Kingdom.
In the general population, the incidence of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is 3 to 4 cases per 1 million people according to the 2009 study; in 2018, the U.S. study statistics is 15 cases per 1 million people. However, cerebral venous thrombosis is not easily diagnosed, and the true incidence is unclear.
In the United States, there are currently about 7 million people receiving Johnson & Johnson vaccine, of which there have been 6 cases of thrombosis, which is close to 1/100 million.
Incidence rate is on the one hand, on the other hand, the location, severity and consequences of thrombosis must be considered.
In particular, these blood clots did not occur in the elderly, but in the young people, in the deep veins of the brain, causing many deaths. As of March 22, European regulators have conducted a detailed review of 86 cases, of which 18 were fatal and the death rate was as high as 20%.
Although the thrombotic side effect of the vaccine is rare, it can cause fatal harm to young and healthy people, and the risks obviously outweigh the benefits. Therefore, it is reasonable for many countries to suspend AZ vaccination for people under 60.
After vaccination, there are 2 major symptoms to be vigilant
So, how to identify possible rare thrombotic symptoms after injection of Johnson & Johnson and AZ vaccines? European regulatory agencies and the US CDC have separately reminded that within three weeks of receiving the vaccination, if any of the following conditions occur, seek medical attention as soon as possible:
Severe and persistent headaches, persistent abdominal pain, swelling or pain in the legs, blurred vision, shortness of breath, and bruises on the skin outside the injection area.
Among them, there are two obvious characteristics:
1) Headaches: especially persistent and severe headaches, must not be ignored, this is the main symptom feature in all current cases. If there is a cerebral venous thrombosis, it may also be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.
2) Blood ecchymosis spots on the skin: Pay attention to monitor whether there may be a rapid and severe drop in the number of platelets. When skin ecchymosis occurs, it may be a platelet problem. If you suspect that you have symptoms of thrombocytopenia after the vaccination, you might as well go to the hospital for a simple blood test to rule out the risk. In addition, the baseline value of platelets before vaccination is also valuable for providing judgment.
News (4)
Look at the side effects of the covi vaccine at once! You must know before getting the vaccine
Narration : Dong Yuhong (European virology expert, chief scientist of biotechnology company) / Editor : Li Jia / https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/21/3/24/n12833946.htm / Extract translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
Variant viruses continue to spread. In order to control the epidemic, the world has stepped up the introduction of the covi vaccine, but the side effects of the vaccine have also discouraged many people. What are the side effects of the six vaccines currently being administered by Modena, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, Russian Satellite 5 and China Kexing (CoronaVac)? Are these side effects normal?
The side effects of the covi vaccine are mainly divided into two categories
The common side effects of the new crown vaccine are mainly divided into two categories:
● Local side effects at the injection site, manifested as pain, redness and swelling.
● Systemic side effects such as fatigue, headache, myalgia, joint pain, fever and chills.
Most of these symptoms appear within three days after the vaccination, and will slowly disappear after two or three days.
Speaking of which, first crack a myth. Many people think that vaccine side effects are terrible. In fact, it is normal for vaccines to cause general side effects.
This is because the vaccine injected into the human body needs to stimulate the immune system to produce an immune response and stimulate antibodies. In this way, the vaccine can be effective against the virus. Pain and swelling at the injection site, physical fatigue, fever, headache, etc. are the reactions that accompany the body after the immune response is produced, which is a sign of the immune system being activated and starting to work. It also shows that the immune system is learning how to fight the new coronavirus and build a certain degree of immunity.
There are also people who have no response to the vaccine after being injected. In this case, there is no need to worry about whether or not antibodies are produced. In the end, it is not based on the body's response, but based on the antibody test.
From the clinical data of Phase III, most people will have some adverse reactions (like a severe cold) after being injected with the vaccine. It should be said that the body's response to the new crown vaccine is still relatively large. However, what we are talking about here are general side effects. If an unexpected and serious adverse reaction occurs, special attention must be paid.
Which of the six covi vaccines have the least side effects?
According to the clinical trial data of each new crown vaccine, the approximate side effects can be understood.
Many people ask, which vaccine has high side effects and which has fewer side effects? In fact, strictly speaking, the data of different vaccines cannot be directly compared, because they are not conducted under the same clinical trial conditions—different regions, different hospitals, different medical staff, and different subjects, so There will be systematic errors. But we can see some trends from the comparison of these data.
Comparison table of side effects of six vaccines:
Image : Compare the side effects of the six vaccines of Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, Russian Satellite 5 and China Kexing. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
1. Moderna vaccine
Common side effects of Moderna vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Common side effects of Moderna vaccine, second dose data. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Moderna vaccine belongs to mRNA vaccine. According to Modena Phase III clinical data, the most common adverse reaction is pain at the injection site, which occurs in 80% of people. Others such as erythema and swelling have a lower rate of less than 10%.
Some people have symptoms of swollen lymph nodes after being injected with Moderna, which is also caused by the immune system stimulated by the vaccine, and usually heals naturally within a week. However, if the swelling and pain lasts for more than a week, and the discomfort does not ease over time, but worsens, it is recommended to consult a physician.
The systemic side effects caused by Moderna are mainly fatigue, headache and muscle pain. The side effects after the second injection are more than those of the first injection.
2. Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
Image : Common side effects of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is also an mRNA vaccine. The common local side effects are similar to Modena, including pain, erythema and swelling. The systemic side effects are also fatigue, headache and muscle pain the most common, and the incidence is slightly lower than that of Modena.
After the second injection of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the local side effects did not change significantly, but the systemic side effects increased significantly.
3. AstraZeneca vaccine
Common side effects of AstraZeneca vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Image : Common side effects of AstraZeneca vaccine, first dose, standard dose data. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
AstraZeneca vaccine is an adenovirus vector vaccine. Its main local side effects are pain, tenderness and skin fever. The systemic side effects are about the same as other vaccines.
In clinical studies, AstraZeneca tested high-dose (standard dose) and low-dose, as well as people of different ages. The results show that people with higher injection doses and younger people have more side effects. This is because young people have stronger immunity, and their body reacts more strongly after being vaccinated.
Unlike other vaccines, AstraZeneca has fewer side effects after the second injection than the first injection.
Recently, the AstraZeneca vaccine has attracted much attention due to thrombotic events. The current European Medicines Agency (EMA) research and judgment result is that thrombosis is not directly related to the vaccine. In fact, many people may not have noticed that AstraZeneca reported 2 cases of spinal cord inflammation during the phase III clinical trial. This was an unexpected adverse event like thrombus. At that time, the clinical trial was suspended, and the independent expert committee confirmed that one case was not related to the vaccine, but the other case may still be related. Later, the trial resumed, and neurological events were continuously monitored.
4. Johnson & Johnson Vaccine
Common side effects of Johnson & Johnson vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Common side effects of Johnson & Johnson vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Johnson & Johnson vaccine is currently the only vaccine that only requires one shot. It is also an adenovirus vector vaccine, and its local side effects are very similar to those of other vaccines. The main adverse reaction is pain. Other side effects such as erythema and swelling are rare.
The systemic side effects caused by the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are also manifested as fatigue, headache, and muscle pain. The number of young people (18-55 years old) with adverse reactions is significantly higher than that of the elderly (over 65 years old).
5. Russian Sputnik V vaccine
The Russian Sputnik V vaccine is a mixed adenovirus vector vaccine. The side effects it causes are mainly flu-like symptoms.
6. China CoronaVac (Kexing Vaccine)
Common side effects of China Kexing vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
Common side effects of China Kexing vaccine. (Health 1+1 / Epoch Times)
China Kexing vaccine is widely vaccinated in mainland China and Hong Kong, so it is very popular among Chinese people. Kexing vaccine currently only has Phase I and Phase II clinical research data, and only 348 people participated in the trial. The adverse reaction rate is significantly lower than that of other vaccines, which is only over 20%. [10][11]
From an academic point of view, Kexing’s data has two doubts:
First, people who received the vaccine and the placebo (normal saline) had almost the same probability of side effects.
Generally speaking, in clinical trials, two groups will be set up, one group is injected with vaccine and the other group is injected with placebo (normal saline) to compare the differences between the two.
Among other covi vaccines, the side effect rate of the vaccine injection group is significantly higher than that of the placebo group: the placebo group is generally 10% to 20%, and the vaccine injection group is 70% to 80%, or more. This is a natural phenomenon, because the injection of saline usually does not cause any side effects, nor does it stimulate the immune system to produce any response. The 20% side effects are usually caused by psychological factors.
The probability of side effects after CoronaVac injection is similar to that of normal saline injection, which is quite puzzling. Moreover, the incidence of certain side effects in the vaccine group is even lower than that of the placebo group.
Second, the incidence of adverse events is not related to the injection dose.
Generally speaking, the higher the injection dose, the more side effects. This phenomenon can be seen in clinical studies of other vaccines, which is called "dose correlation." However, according to the research results of Kexing Vaccine, it seems that there is no such rule. Some low-dose groups have higher side effects than high-dose groups. Not in line with common sense.
We have been looking forward to the large-scale clinical data of Kexing's Phase III, but unfortunately, it has not yet been published, and the number of subjects enrolled in its Phase I-II clinical study is small, so CoronaVac is not good.
News (5)
The first case of thrombosis after vaccination in Taiwan ! A man in his 30s was vaccinated with AZ, fever and low platelets
Reporter : Ye Weichen / Extract translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
The Epidemic Command Center announced today (2 June) that there have also been cases of thrombosis after AZ vaccination in Taiwan! After the 31 May meeting of the Vaccination Group of the Infectious Disease Prevention Consultation Committee of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, it was confirmed that a man in his 30s was vaccinated, causing thrombosis and thrombocytopenia. The command center explained that after receiving the first dose of AZ vaccine on 12 May, a man in his 30s had fever and other physical symptoms, although it gradually eased after 3 days.
However, starting on 19 May, a week later, symptoms such as mild fever, persistent headache, and abdominal pain reappeared. After seeking a blood test, it was found that platelets were low and D-dimer was abnormally elevated. Synchronous imaging examination of the head and abdomen did not find it.
Thrombosis is a sign, but Li Bingying, an expert advisory member of the command centre, said that the condition may be relatively unobvious, so it can't be seen, and after clinical research, it is "thrombosis and low platelet syndrome."
This case was treated promptly according to the treatment guidelines. The case is currently recovering from platelet values and is in stable condition. After review by experts, it conforms to the case definition of the International Brighton Cooperation Organization, and is judged to be the first TTS case in Taiwan. The command centre called for severe persistent headache, vision changes, epilepsy, severe and persistent abdominal pain for more than 24 hours, severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, swelling or pain in the lower limbs, spontaneous bleeding spots on the skin within 28 days after inoculation with the AZ vaccine.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible for any symptoms such as bruises, and purple spots, and inform the vaccination history, so that the doctor can clarify the cause as soon as possible and give appropriate clinical treatment.
Experts from the command center said that 460,000 people have been vaccinated with domestic AZ. This is the first case of TTS in China, with an incidence rate of 2.1 per million, compared with the incidence of TTS in other countries such as the United Kingdom after the first dose. About 12.3 parts per million, the EU is as low as 6.5 parts per million.
News (6)
Praise Guo Taiming's purchase of vaccines with "5 impeccable measures" Shen Fuxiong: Slap Tsai
Reporter : Cai Yiting / Editor : Zhuang Yating / Extract translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
The local epidemic situation continues to be severe and the government has not yet completed the purchase of international vaccines. The founder of Foxconn Group Terry Guo Taiming stated that he will strive for 5 million doses of BNT vaccine to be donated to the Chinese people. On 1 June, the document was submitted to the Food and Drug Administration of the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
In this regard, former DPP legislator Shen Fuxiong praised Guo Taiming's procurement of vaccines this morning (2 June) is almost impeccable, undoubtedly slapped the Tsai government heavily.
Shen Fuxiong pointed out in the PO post on Facebook that Taiwan will follow Guo Taiming's model to win the second half of the epidemic, and Guo Taiming took the initiative to play a beautiful one in the dispute over the procurement of vaccines. He pointed out Guo Taiming's 5 tricks as follows.
Firstly, purchase directly from the original German factory and bypass Shanghai Fosun. Secondly, it was transported by air from Germany to Taiwan to ensure it is original.
Thirdly, the people do not fight with the officials, and follow the latest government requirements and do so.
Fourthly, Guo is also a major shareholder of Taikang Biotech, who is responsible for handling related affairs.
Fifthly, 5 million doses are 15% needed to complete 70% universal coverage. They are generous, not pediatrics.
Shen Fuxiong praised that these five tricks are almost impeccable. Although they violate the two principles declared by President Tsai Ing-wen, "Guo Dong may have completed due negotiations with the BNT head office, and the government has nothing to do. "Leave room for intervention" and "break the pattern of "central coordination" of arrogance."
Shen Fuxiong believes that this move will undoubtedly give the Tsai administration a heavy slap, but Tsai will have to swallow it. If she lost face, the people will definitely stand 100% on Guo Dong's side.
Shen Fuxiong said that Guo Taiming opened the most difficult knot. Everyone must "arrange ahead" and win the second half of the fight against the epidemic. He gave three suggestions as follows: Shen Fuxiong urged all walks of life to follow up, especially those with strong financial resources. To protect the country, each enterprise collectively adds at least 10 million doses to 45% of the dose required for a coverage rate of 70%.
According to the Guo Dong model, Guo Dong should not hesitate to guide the procurement. Secondly, the recruitment of retired medical staff to set up injection stations in all villages across Taiwan.
The current 1,000 stations claimed by Chen Shizhong at the end of August is not popular enough and not convenient. Finally, the vaccine should be administered before the end of the year, pushing Taiwan's vaccine injection rate to within 5th place in the world.
Shen Fuxiong said that everyone knows that Taiwan's excellent results in the first half of the epidemic prevention depend on the people's obedience, and the second half can also catch up, relying on the enthusiasm of the whole people to defeat the rigid bureaucractic system, "Taiwan Needs Help! But Help Comes From Within."
However, regarding the documents submitted by Guo Taiming's team to the Food and Drug Administration, Commander Chen Shizhong pointed out at a press conference this afternoon that the information is quite complete but he did not see the original authorization letter. He urged Guo to contact the other party again. In this regard, Terry Guo’s assistant Liu Youtong, CEO of the Yongling Foundation, pointed out earlier that he would clarify and respond to the outside world.
News (7) to (10) / Reporter : Li Yuyu / Extract translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
News (7)
Taiwan reports 372 new community cases on 2 June 2021, 177 cases of corrected regression
The Central Epidemic Command Center announced today (2 June) that there were 372 new domestic cases of covid and 177 cases of corrected regression. Among them, in Taipei, there are 152 new local covid cases and 54 cases of corrected regression.
News (8)
Either PCR inspection or upload time of cases is stuck
In the afternoon, the Taipei City Hall held a press conference on epidemic prevention and response. Taipei Mayor Ke Wenzhe said that he hopes that everyone will not panic too much. The increase in the number of people only reflects the increase in the number of cases during this period. It may be that the PCR inspection time is stuck or even the upload time is stuck. In fact, people only need to look at the trend.
Image : Ke Wenzhe believes that the data about a week ago will be more correct. Recently, there are often some supplementary problems that have become less clear. Data of confirmed diagnoses in various administrative districts of Taipei. (Photo: Provided by the Taipei City Government)
Starting from 30 May, calculating the number of confirmed cases in all administrative districts of New Taipei, there are still at most 10 cases in Wanhua District, 5 cases in Neihu District, and 3 cases each in Xinyi and Zhongzheng Districts. There are still infections in all administrative districts of Taipei.
News (9)
Ke Wenzhe: Prevention of covid is more difficult than SARS
Ke Wenzhe explained that the prevention of covid is more difficult than SARS. "Because SARS becomes infectious only after it begins to develop, it is very simple. If you have a fever, I know that you are sick, and I can prevent it." Why is it that the covid in Taipei has been controlled to a certain extent, and it is quite difficult nowadays.
A big reason is that there is a risk of infection before the onset of disease. Ke Wenzhe said that tactics must be changed to reduce the number of confirmed cases. (Photo/Taipei City Government)
Ke Wenzhe explained that the city government encourages people who are sick to come for quick screening, but the problem is that when a person gets sick, he has the ability to infect one or two days ago. "So now we want to control it. To a certain extent, how can the epidemic be further controlled so that the epidemic can be more controlled? It will become that he has to be controlled one or two days before the onset of the disease. Therefore, to solve this, we still need an epidemic investigation. Who is in contact with in the first two days? We are thinking of ways to get back the blockage.”
News (10)
Ke Wenzhe: Asymptomatic patients must stay at epidemic prevention hotels
Ke Wenzhe said that to carry out this plan, the tactics need to be re-adjusted. Originally, it was because of the insufficient capacity of the epidemic prevention hotel that the confirmed patients were allowed to stay at home. In the future, it will be changed to, "Even if If they are asymptomatic patients, once the diagnosis is confirmed, the city government still advocates to go to the epidemic prevention hotel. If you have symptoms, go to the hospital." Only then can the city government have a way to let people in the health center do the epidemic investigation, so that the epidemic can be further eliminated.
News (11) to (15) / https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/21/6/1/n12990652.htm / Translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
News (11)
Xie Jinhe: There is politics behind this vaccine war in Taiwan
Taiwan’s number of new local cases and corrected return cases decreased on 31 May. Chen Shizhong, the commander of the Central Epidemic Epidemic Command Centre, said that the national level 3 alert has been effective and the epidemic is moving towards a controllable range. Chen Shizhong emphasized on 26 May that any vaccine import must go through the FDA review process. As long as the vaccine complies with Taiwan's regulations and has passed the national review, it can be imported.
Taiwan Caixun Media Chairman Xie Jinhe pointed out on 1 June that the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Communist Party of China required the Green Camp to "abandon political prejudices and be vaccinated with Chinese vaccines" , "Many people see the stitches, in fact, behind it is politics!"
The name appears in the deep blue and the reunification group Xie Jinhe: Behind the vaccine war is politics
Xie Jinhe posted on Facebook today that he woke up this morning and saw his name appearing in several dark blue, unification groups, "They took me to high-end stock prices, but Pfizer's stock price did not rise, so I came up with a conclusion: Friends of the Green Camp: They make money and kill their lives. They cast domestic vaccines for themselves and the funders, blocking the urgently needed vaccines from Europe, America, and the mainland that are internationally certified and effective..."
News (12)
High expectations for Taiwan's domestic covi vaccines
He said that this text was in his previous article from the national mask team to the national vaccine team. He was worried about the covid outbreak and the failure of domestic vaccines. In the past ten years, he has been deeply disgusted with the wild hype about the asymmetry of information in biotechnology stocks. From Kea to Hao Ding, to last year's Heavenly Kingdom Ikki, he disapproved. This time, before the domestic vaccines were finalized, the stock price rose sharply. He felt that it was very inappropriate, and he might have political recoil.
"Of course I know that the stock prices of Moderna and BioNTech have soared." Xie Jinhe said, why he only used Pfizer-BioNTech as an example, just to explain that Pfizer's stock price, which produces hundreds of millions of doses of vaccines, is not moving. The high-end vaccines are not yet clear and the stock prices are too high will trigger political backlash. His reminder was well-intentioned, but he did not expect it to become a tool used by different political parties and political forces to attack the government. He had to make it clear.
He said that another reason is that he is full of expectations for MVC domestic vaccines. This is an important masterpiece of Taiwan’s biotechnology industry for more than ten years. President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Chen Jianren are full of expectations for domestic vaccines. President Tsai is waiting for domestic vaccines.
Xie Jinhe said that he had tried to ask Dr. Chen Canjian, he said that the MVC and Moderna went out of the same door, and he said that MVC vaccine would not leak. Everyone knows that the predecessor of the MVC vaccine is called Kea Vaccine. “Today’s Magazine” had an in-depth report in 2014. “That year, Kea’s blindness was unsuccessful, and the stock price fell from 486 yuan by 19 units.” All of my friends were fascinated by Kea, and he was the only one who kept pouring cold water, and he was also taken to court by the chairman of Kea, Zhang Shizhong.
News (13)
Do not stigmatize MVC vaccines, let Taiwan's biotechnology gain a foodhold
He said that he had a bad impression of MVC for a long time. It was only when he visited MVC factories last year and had in-depth exchanges with Dr. Chen that his impressions changed. At this time, do not completely stigmatize MVC vaccines for political purposes. If Taiwan's domestically produced vaccines can stand up, Taiwan's biotechnology industry will have a foothold.
"In the past few days, I saw that the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council held several press conferences, asking the Green Camp to abandon political prejudices and administer Chinese vaccines. Many people saw stitches and danced everywhere. In fact, there is politics behind it!" Xie Jinhe said.
News (14)
Don't let the vaccine tear Taiwan apart, Xie Jinhe calls to investigate the CCP infiltration
Xie Jinhe posted on Facebook on 30 May, "Don’t Let Vaccine Tear All of Taiwan!" "It pointed out that in the past two days, all of Taiwan has been frying pans for vaccines. In various groups, everyone has quarreled over vaccines, and various political forces, non-governmental organizations and even businessmen have also stepped up and said that they have to find vaccines by themselves. Including Nantou and Yunlin, when a local head of Kuomintang also came out and said that he would purchase the vaccine himself, Fo Guangshan also said that they would order 500,000 doses of vaccine on his behalf, Zhang Yazhong would provide 10 million doses, and Chairman Guo Taiming would directly ship 5 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine directly from Germany...
He reminded the government, "Which of the many companies, religious groups or local heads that purchase vaccines on their own have the CCP's involvement?" He called on the central authority to make it clear.
On 26 May, Xie Jinhe pointed out on Facebook that at the critical moment when the epidemic in Taiwan was out of control, he saw politicians from different camps always mentioning the "square cabin hospital" and "closing the city", and then continued to preach and practice. The politicians who are preaching CCP vaccines are lining up. In fact, the CCP has been commanding Taiwan through the "fifth column" for a long time.
Xie emphasized that Taiwan needs to further investigate the source of Internet rumours, starting from watching and listening to the public, and letting the public know who is the CCP's lurking fellow travelers in Taiwan.
News (15)
Xie Jinhe: "No matter how big the storm is, remember that Taiwan will always be our home!"
On 1 June, Xie Jinhe also posted on Facebook that everyone on the island of Taiwan can speak out, just like in these two days, almost everyone has become a vaccine expert. “I also have some friends who don’t like Taiwan. , They finally showed a rare happiness in the past half month. They have always thought that Taiwan is dead, why I keep saying yes? Over the past year or so, Taiwan’s epidemic prevention has been good. They said it was lucky. This time there was a gap. , They are happy, some even say they can open champagne!"
Xie Jinhe believes that everyone who lives on this island can have an ideology and a standpoint, which he respects, but he has a basic idea, "We were born in Taiwan and grew up in Taiwan. Only this place is good for generations to come. Generations will be better. I have some friends who don’t like Taiwan. In the past two years, I said that Taiwan will be better. I know that some friends hate me very much."
"We have very clear information and will respond quickly to any news." He said that all people in Taiwan are accustomed to focusing their emotions on one focal point. Just like not long ago, the Taiwan Railway train caused a major traffic accident. Everyone focused their attention here for a week. , No one is talking about it now.
"Now the focus of the whole Taiwan is on the epidemic and vaccines," he said. Usually when this happens, the whole island should share misfortunes and support each other to overcome the difficulties. But at this time, people who see needles are setting fire everywhere, and everyone is tearing each other apart! Maybe Taiwan has lived in this way for decades, and when you encounter big things, it is best not to get too excited.
Xie Jinhe pointed out that Taiwan’s ship has been driving in wind and waves, like the CCP’s military planes frequently circling the border. Some people say that Taiwan is swaying in wind and rain. This is an intuitive feeling in some people’s minds. "But Taiwan has always had a pinnacle. When you are desperate and sad, look where is the money going? If Taiwan is about to die, the New Taiwan Dollar will collapse and fall! Today, Taiwan’s sky is about to fry, but the New Taiwan Dollar has appreciated strongly and set a record of 27.5 yuan to 1 U.S. dollar, which means that money is better than people. Love Taiwan more."
"Taiwan entered the third level of alert on 15 May," Xie Jinhe said. Many of his friends said that the stock market must crash. In fact, the heaviest day in Taiwan was 12 May when Taiwan stocks fell 1,417 points during intraday trading. Cheer up everyone, he reminds everyone not to shoot when they see the dark shadows! As of today, Taiwan stocks have returned to 17,000 points. "No matter how big the storm is, remember that Taiwan will always be our home!"
News (16) to (19) / Reporter : Jiang Guotian / Translation, editing : Gan Yung Chyan, KUCINTA SETIA
News (16)
10 million people have been vaccinated every day
On 2 June 2021, Japan announced good news. There are already 10 million people in the country who have received at least one dose of the covi vaccine.
News (17)
Increasing number of athletes vaccinated for Tokyo Olympics
The Australian women's softball team arrived at Narita Airport on Tuesday and waved happily in the lobby. They were the first Olympic national team to arrive in Japan. The Tokyo Olympics will open in less than eight weeks. It is certain that there will be no foreign spectators in various events but Japanese sports fans may have the opportunity to come in and cheer.
CNN reporter said, "The Japanese media quoted anonymous sources. The East Olympics may allow spectators with negative test certificates to enter the stadium." The organizer will announce the decision this month if the fans can see the scene, and the tennis player Qiao Shuai recommended strongly that the audience should be allowed entry. Tennis king Djokovic said, "If there will be no spectators by then, then I will consider whether to participate (Eastern Olympics). I am planning to go and I am also very excited about it."
Japan is also working hard on the countdown to the Olympics. Engaging in the vaccination fight, more than 10 million people across Japan have received at least one dose of the covi vaccine, and athletes who are about to go on the field have also begun to vaccinate in batches.
The general director of the Japanese athletes team, Obei Tsuyoshi, said, "Today (1 June), a total of about 200 athletes and related personnel were vaccinated."
News (18)
Kobe discovers new covi mutant strain
On 2 June 2021, more than 2,600 people were newly diagnosed nationwide on Tuesday in Japan, and Kobe even discovered that a new mutant virus has mutated from Alpha (B.1.1.7).
News (19)
Suga: Duty to protect the lives and health of the people
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga attended the questioning and was severely questioned by members of Congress. Suga said, "It is my duty to protect the lives and health of the people. There is no Olympic priority."
Maiko Tajima, a member of the Japanese Parliament, said, "In response to the Prime Minister, you just said that you can hold the Olympics safely and securely. However, 73% of the people disagree.” The private sector’s suspension of the Eastern Olympics continued to rise, and the Japanese government’s Olympic dream can only be said to be more headwind.
News (20)
Israel sees probable link between Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and myocarditis
Source : Reuters
Image : A vaccination card for Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination in Singapore
Israel’s Health Ministry said on Tuesday it had found the small number of heart inflammation cases observed mainly in young men who received Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in Israel were likely linked to their vaccination.
Pfizer has said it has not observed a higher rate of the condition, known as myocarditis, than would normally be expected in the general population.
In Israel, 275 cases of myocarditis were reported between December 2020 and May 2021 among more than 5 million vaccinated people, the ministry said in disclosing the findings of a study it commissioned to examine the matter.
Most patients who experienced heart inflammation spent no more than four days in the hospital and 95 percent of the cases were classified as mild, according to the study, which the ministry said was conducted by three teams of experts.
Pfizer said in a statement that it is aware of the Israeli observations of myocarditis, noting that no causal link to its vaccine has been established.
Adverse events are thoroughly reviewed and Pfizer meets regularly with the Vaccine Safety Department of the Israeli Ministry of Health to review data, it said.
Israel had held off making its 12- to 15-year-old population eligible for the vaccines, pending the Health Ministry report. In parallel to publishing those findings, a ministry committee approved vaccinating the adolescents, a senior official said.
“The committee gave the green light for vaccinating 12- to 15-year-olds, and this will be possible as of next week,” Nachman Ash, Israel’s pandemic-response coordinator, told Radio 103 FM. “The efficacy of the vaccine outweighs the risk.”
A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory group last month recommended further study of the possibility of a link between myocarditis and mRNA vaccines, which include those from Pfizer and Moderna Inc.
CDC monitoring systems had not found more cases than would be expected in the population, but the advisory group said in a statement that members felt healthcare providers should be made aware of reports of a “potential adverse event.”
Israel has been a world leader in its vaccination rollout. With COVID-19 infections down to just a handful a day and total active cases at just 340 across the country, the economy has fully opened, though restrictions remain on incoming tourism.
About 55 percent of Israel’s population has already been vaccinated. As of Tuesday, restrictions on social distancing and the need for special green vaccination passes to enter certain restaurants and venues were scrapped.
The study found “there is a probable link between receiving the second dose (of Pfizer) vaccine and the appearance of myocarditis among men aged 16 to 30,” it said in a statement.
According to the findings, such a link was observed more among men aged 16 to 19 than in other age groups.
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