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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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Diabetes Symptoms in Men: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, and men are particularly vulnerable to its long-term complications. In India, the burden of diabetes has increased sharply over the past two decades, driven by lifestyle changes, sedentary habits and dietary patterns. Despite this, many men remain unaware of early diabetes symptoms or delay medical consultation until complications develop.

Understanding diabetes symptoms in men is essential for early diagnosis, effective management and prevention of serious health consequences.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to:

insufficient insulin production
ineffective insulin action
or both

The most common form affecting men is type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to lifestyle factors.

Why Men Are at Higher Risk

Several factors increase diabetes risk in men:

higher abdominal fat accumulation
smoking and alcohol consumption
irregular eating patterns
work-related stress
lower healthcare-seeking behaviour

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, a significant proportion of men remain undiagnosed until advanced stages.

Early Diabetes Symptoms in Men

Frequent Urination

Excess sugar in the blood causes kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, especially at night.

Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing constant thirst.

Fatigue and Weakness

Cells cannot utilise glucose efficiently, resulting in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.

Unexplained Weight Changes

Men may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.

Increased Hunger

Insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, triggering frequent hunger.

Diabetes Symptoms Unique or Commonly Seen in Men

Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to erectile dysfunction.

Studies show a strong association between diabetes and male sexual health problems.

Reduced Testosterone Levels

Men with diabetes often have lower testosterone, affecting libido, muscle mass and mood.

Decreased Muscle Strength

Poor glucose utilisation affects muscle health and physical stamina.

Skin and Infection-Related Symptoms

Slow-Healing Wounds

High blood sugar impairs wound healing, increasing infection risk.

Frequent Infections

Men with diabetes are more prone to:

skin infections
urinary tract infections
fungal infections

Vision and Nerve Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar affects eye lenses, causing blurred vision.

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, causes tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

Why Diabetes Symptoms Are Often Ignored by Men

Many men dismiss symptoms as:

work-related fatigue
ageing
stress

This delay increases the risk of complications.

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Diabetes

If untreated, diabetes can lead to:

heart disease
kidney failure
nerve damage
vision loss
sexual dysfunction

According to WHO and Lancet studies, early detection significantly reduces complication risk.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis allows:

better blood sugar control
lifestyle modification
prevention of organ damage

Routine screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.

When Should Men Get Tested?

Men should consider testing if they:

are over 30 years old
have a family history of diabetes
are overweight
have a sedentary lifestyle
experience any warning signs

Annual screening is recommended for at-risk individuals.

Managing Diabetes After Diagnosis

Effective management includes:

healthy diet
regular physical activity
weight control
stress management
medical treatment as advised

Early management improves quality of life.

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare focuses on:

early screening
lifestyle intervention
regular follow-up

According to NITI Aayog, preventive strategies are essential to control India’s diabetes burden.

Mental Health and Diabetes in Men

Diabetes can affect mental wellbeing, leading to:

stress
anxiety
depression

Addressing emotional health improves diabetes outcomes.

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health

Men often avoid seeking help due to stigma.

Promoting awareness helps:

normalise health conversations
encourage timely medical care
reduce preventable complications

Conclusion

Diabetes symptoms in men often develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight changes and sexual health issues should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely management significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. Awareness, routine screening and proactive healthcare are essential steps for men to protect their health and wellbeing in an era of rising lifestyle diseases.

References

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Diabetes Epidemiology and Risk Studies
World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes Prevention and Management Guidelines
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes Prevalence in Men
Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology – Male-Specific Diabetes Outcomes
NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports
Statista – Global Diabetes Trends and Gender Differences

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