Thread by @WHO

Primary analysis of data from Phase III trials of the AstraZeneca/Oxford #COVID19 vaccine has so far shown that it offers protection against severe disease, hospitalisation & death.
It is vital now to determine its effectiveness when it comes to preventing more severe illness.

These results confirm we must do everything possible to reduce the circulation of the virus, prevent infections & reduce the opportunities for the SARS-CoV-2 to evolve resulting in mutations that may reduce the efficacy of existing #COVID19 vaccines.
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https://twitter.com/who/status/1359046096937381895

#COVID19 vaccine manufacturers must be prepared to adjust to the SARS-CoV-2 viral evolution, including potentially providing future booster shots and adapted vaccines, if found to be scientifically necessary.
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#COVID19 vaccine trials must be designed and maintained to allow any changes in efficacy to be assessed, and to be of sufficient scale and diversity to enable clear interpretation of results.
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Enhanced genomic surveillance must be backed by rapid sharing of genetic and meta-data to allow for global coordination and response to the #COVID19 pandemic.
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Priority should be given to vaccinating high-risk groups everywhere in order to ensure maximum global protection against new strains of #COVID19 and minimize the risk of transmission.
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https://twitter.com/who/status/1357649531647705089