"Pfizer 4th Dose, Limited Effectiveness in Preventing Omicron"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] In Israel, the first country in the world to start the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, an analysis has emerged that the effectiveness of the Pfizer fourth dose in preventing Omicron variant infection is limited.

Sheba Medical Center, Israel's largest medical institution, announced preliminary research results on the 17th (local time) based on about 150 of its own medical staff. Israel is currently administering the fourth dose to medical personnel, elderly people aged 60 and over, and immunocompromised individuals.

The investigation showed that antibody levels one week after the fourth dose were slightly higher than one week after the third dose. However, this level was not sufficient to prevent Omicron infection.

Dr. Gili Regev-Yochay, head of the hospital's COVID-19 fourth dose trial, explained, "The vaccine was very effective against previously emerged variants, but not against Omicron," adding, "No matter how good the vaccine is, it cannot provide antibody levels higher than those required to prevent Omicron infection."

In fact, Avigdor Lieberman, Israel's Minister of Finance, who completed the fourth dose, tested positive for COVID-19 on the 15th. At 63 years old this year, he tested positive just five days after receiving the fourth dose on the 10th.

Meanwhile, this study is a preliminary one reviewing early-stage data. Dr. Regev-Yochay stated, "Although these are preliminary research results, they are sufficient to provide basic data regarding the effectiveness of the fourth dose."

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