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Published on: Jul 17, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

MRNA Vaccine Against SARS CoV2

An mRNA Vaccine against SARS CoV2

We have previously discussed vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. On the 14th of July, a preliminary study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine, an internationally reputable medical journal. This study looks at mRNA vaccines in Phase 1 human clinical trials, a first for the virus. Here we will discuss what this means and the results of the study.

mRNA vaccine

Vaccines target the immune system’s memory by presenting them with pieces of these infective diseases. The small amounts do not cause any infective symptoms, but if the person is infected later in life their body will mount a quicker response and prevent them from falling ill. These vaccines can contain broken up parts of the organisms, “dead” organisms or “live” versions that have been severely weakened so they cannot cause any harm.

In 2018 a new type of vaccine was described. Instead of using pre-made protein markers that identify infectious organisms, mRNA vaccines contain genetic material with instructions to produce these markers. Once injected, the person’s cells use these instructions to produce copies of these protein markers. These markers are displayed on the surface of the cell, which in turn is recognized by the immune system, initiating an immune response and producing protective antibodies.

BENEFITS

A major advantage of RNA vaccines is the ease by which they can be made in a laboratory from a DNA template. During a pandemic, this would result in a rapid response and vaccine against a new disease. Conventional vaccines require the use of chicken eggs or cells to produce the vaccines, which can be expensive and time-consuming. These vaccines can be delivered via injections into the skin, blood, muscle, or organs, needle-free into the skin, or via nasal spray. Because these vaccines are so new, we still do not know the best way to deliver it.

Because these vaccines are not made with parts of infective organisms or from live organisms, they are not infectious and will not cause harm through a strong immune response to the vaccine itself, or by causing the disease they aim to vaccinate against. They also appear to be very efficient at generating a reliable immune response to produce antibodies and are well tolerated with few side effects.

NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

Because these types of vaccines are so new there is still a lot we do not understand about them. They may cause unintended effects that we have not yet encountered in human clinical studies. These vaccines also need to be frozen or refrigerated, and so would not be suitable for countries with limited or no refrigeration facilities.

COVID

The SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine codes for one of the virus’ surface spike proteins, responsible for recognizing target cells and fusing the virus into the cell for entry and infection. It was previously recognized as a target for the SARS and MERS viruses.

45 participants received 2 intramuscular injections 28 days apart. None of the participants had any serious side effects after the first injection, or any side effects significant enough to stop the trial. Many had minor to moderate side effects after their second injection (such as fatigue, chills, headache, myalgia, and pain at the injection site), and half the participants taking high dose vaccines had febrile side effects. Overall the side effects were rated as acceptable.

Prior to the vaccine trials, none of the participants had any antibodies against COVID, or any capacity to stop a COIVD infection. After the injections, all participants had noticeable increases in antibodies produced, measurable in their blood. After 43 days, the participant's blood had enough antibodies to reduce infection by SARS-CoV-2 by over 80%.

What is the takeaway? The vaccine is capable of producing an adequate response to protect the vaccine recipient without eliciting any major side effects. These results will be used in phase 2 clinical trials (enrolment began in May) and a phase 3 trial in July 2020. Essentially this means further human trials to further look for side effects in a larger number of volunteers with a more diverse health profile.

This represents an interesting development in producing a rapid vaccine against a new virus responsible for a world-changing pandemic. This new type of vaccine may be the future of vaccines for a broader range of viruses, bacteria, and even cancers.

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common health problems during seasonal change

Seasonal changes bring relief from extreme weather, but they also pose unique challenges to human health. Transitions between summer, monsoon and winter often trigger a rise in illnesses. The body requires time to adapt to changing temperature, humidity and environmental conditions. During this adjustment period, immunity may weaken, making individuals more vulnerable to infections and other health problems.

Understanding common health problems during seasonal change helps individuals take preventive measures and seek timely care.

Why Seasonal Change Affects Health

Seasonal transitions impact the body in several ways:

sudden temperature fluctuations stress the immune system
humidity changes promote pathogen growth
allergens become more prevalent
lifestyle habits shift with weather

These factors collectively increase illness risk.

1. Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections are among the most common health problems during seasonal change.

Causes

viral and bacterial growth in changing weather
increased indoor crowding
weakened respiratory defences

Symptoms

cough
sore throat
fever
nasal congestion

Children and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable.

2. Common Cold and Flu

Seasonal transitions often coincide with cold and flu outbreaks.

Why They Increase

viruses survive longer in certain climates
immunity temporarily weakens
exposure increases during travel and gatherings

Symptoms

runny nose
sneezing
body aches
fatigue

3. Allergies

Seasonal allergies become prominent during weather shifts.

Common Triggers

pollen
dust
mould
air pollution

Symptoms

sneezing
itchy eyes
nasal congestion
throat irritation

Allergic symptoms can mimic infections and are often overlooked.

4. Digestive Problems

Digestive issues such as acidity, gas and indigestion are common during seasonal change.

Contributing Factors

altered eating patterns
contaminated food or water
reduced digestion efficiency

Symptoms

bloating
abdominal discomfort
nausea

5. Skin Problems

Changes in humidity and temperature affect skin health.

Common Issues

dryness
fungal infections
rashes

Poor skin barrier function increases infection risk.

6. Viral Fevers

Viral fevers are common during monsoon and post-monsoon periods.

Symptoms

sudden fever
body pain
headache
weakness

Early rest and hydration are essential.

7. Joint and Body Pain

Seasonal change may worsen joint stiffness and body aches, especially in individuals with arthritis.

Causes

cold weather
reduced physical activity
inflammation

Why Immunity Drops During Seasonal Change

Immunity may weaken due to:

temperature stress
vitamin deficiencies
poor sleep
increased stress

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, immunity-related illnesses increase during transitional seasons.

Who Is Most at Risk?

High-risk groups include:

infants and children
elderly individuals
pregnant women
people with chronic diseases
individuals with low immunity

Extra care is required for these groups.
people with diabetes, heart disease,lung disease, kidney disease

Prevention of Seasonal Health Problems

Maintain Good Hygiene

Frequent handwashing reduces infection spread.

Support Immune Health

Balanced nutrition, hydration and adequate sleep strengthen immunity.

Stay Physically Active

Regular movement supports circulation and immune function.

Eat Fresh and Safe Food

Avoid stale or contaminated food during high-risk seasons.

Stay Vaccinated

Vaccination helps prevent seasonal flu and related complications.

Manage Allergens

Keep living spaces clean and well-ventilated.
mask use in crowded places, safe water, mosquito protection in monsoon.

Early Warning Signs Not to Ignore

Seek medical advice if experiencing:

persistent fever
breathing difficulty
severe weakness
worsening symptoms

Early intervention prevents complications.

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive care focuses on:

early detection
risk reduction
long-term health protection

Seasonal health awareness is a key part of preventive medicine.

Long-Term Impact of Ignoring Seasonal Illness

Repeated seasonal illnesses may lead to:

chronic respiratory problems
weakened immunity
reduced quality of life

Prevention protects long-term health.

Conclusion

Common health problems during seasonal change include respiratory infections, colds, allergies, digestive issues and viral fevers. These conditions arise due to sudden weather changes, weakened immunity and increased exposure to pathogens. By understanding the causes and symptoms and adopting preventive measures such as good hygiene, balanced nutrition, adequate rest and timely medical care, individuals can significantly reduce seasonal illness risk. Seasonal transitions are inevitable, but proactive health practices ensure smoother adaptation and better wellbeing throughout the year.

References

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Seasonal Disease Surveillance Report
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Immunity and Morbidity Data
World Health Organization (WHO) – Seasonal Illness Prevention Guideline
NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare and Climate Health Reports
Lancet – Climate Change and Seasonal Disease Patterns
Statista – Seasonal Illness Trends and Public Health Data

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