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Published on: Apr 04, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

THE CHALLENGES FACED IN MAKING A VACCINE FOR COVID-19 — Part 2

Previously we’ve seen the difficulties researches face in trying to make a vaccine. But even if we make a vaccine, that’s just half the battle. Viruses are unique because they can mutate, and they can mutate to astonishing degrees. In humans mutations to tiny parts of our DNA can cause severe diseases or even death. In viruses mutations can change their structure, making them more infective and giving them a new coat. It gives them a survival advantage, the ability to evade our immune system and make our vaccines ineffective. This is why we need a new flu vaccine every year.

If it takes months to a year to develop a vaccine, it will be based off the virus found in December 2019. By this time the virus may have spread and mutated to such a degree that it is not effective. This does not mean all the effort was for nothing. Going through the steps and understanding the issues faced with making a COVID-19 vaccine can make the process quicker for subsequent vaccines against its mutated versions.

https://www.sciencealert.com/who-says-a-coronavirus-vaccine-is-18-months-away So Long to Develop a Vaccine

FAILURES FROM THE PAST

These issues were faced during the Ebola and Zika virus epidemics, and many large companies are understandably hesitant to develop vaccines for COVID-19. Ebola first broke out in 2014, and it was only in December 2019 that the first vaccine was approved for use by the European Commission and the United States. This is despite multiple large institutes in Canada and the UK working together to develop it.

13 different Ebola vaccine candidates had been identified soon after the outbreak, but none had been tested on humans. Unfortunately this is the most expensive part of development, and the area biopharmecuticals stand to loose the most money. Return on investments is also low, since epidemics usually take place in poorer countries, and the potential customers are unable to pay the high prices for these brand new treatments. It is an unfortunate realisation that research into medicines is driven by rich countries, for diseases that affect the rich.

https://newint.org/features/web-exclusive/2016/06/16/why-did-the-market-fail-to-produce-an-ebola-vaccine Ebola

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

This is all well and good, but what does it mean for COVID-19? We know we cannot rush a vaccine, because a poorly designed vaccine with unknown side effects can cause more harm than good, especially if given to children or the elderly. Currently the WHO are tracking 31 different attempts at making a COVID-19 vaccine, using different methods as discussed before. All of these are currently in the pre-clinical stage, focusing on isolating parts of the virus and creating a target the body will recognise and react to.

Researchers at the University of Queensland were one of the first to start using the genetic code of COVID-19, released openly by Chinese researchers. They have developed a test vaccine within 6 weeks using state-of-the-art genetic techniques, used for the first time. If animal models prove successful then human testing might begin within 6 months. In the pharmaceutical industry advancements this quick are almost unheard of.

Additionally over 293 clinical trials are taking place in China using existing drugs on the market. The advantage is we already know these drugs are safe to use in humans, but we are trying to work out if they will work against COVID-19. Some scientists are also looking at medications that were initially developed against SARS and MERS, but never completed because these outbreaks died down and the medication was no longer required.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/china-recovered-develop-effective-covid-19-treatments-200302082850237.html COVID-19 treatments

https://www.who.int/blueprint/priority-diseases/key-action/novel-coronavirus-landscape-ncov.pdf?ua=1 WHO news

https://www.theverge.com/2020/2/28/21156385/covid-coronavirus-vaccine-treatment-moderna-remdesivir-research COVID-19 treatment

Its not all doom and gloom. Challenges drive innovation, and we are already benefitting from this. New forms of genetic sequencing, new methods for extracting viral proteins, new techniques in creating a vaccine. These innovations are already benefitting us on the drive to create an effective vaccine for COVID-19, and they will benefit us in the future when the next pandemic hits.

Dr Rajan Choudhary, Product Manager Second Medic UK

www.secondmedic.com

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Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health: Risks, Effects and Prevention

Air pollution has become one of the most serious public health challenges worldwide. In India, rapid urbanisation, vehicle emissions, industrial activity and seasonal factors contribute to high pollution levels, especially in metropolitan cities. Understanding the impact of air pollution on human health is essential because exposure to polluted air significantly increases the risk of chronic illness and premature death.

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths globally each year. Studies published in The Lancet highlight India as one of the countries most affected by air quality-related health burdens.

What Is Air Pollution?

Air pollution occurs when harmful substances such as:

particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
nitrogen dioxide
sulfur dioxide
ozone
carbon monoxide

accumulate in the atmosphere at unsafe levels.

Among these, PM2.5 particles are particularly dangerous because they are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

Respiratory Health Effects

The most immediate and visible impact of air pollution is on the lungs.

Short-Term Effects

coughing
throat irritation
wheezing
shortness of breath

Long-Term Effects

chronic bronchitis
asthma worsening
reduced lung capacity
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Children and elderly individuals are especially vulnerable.

Impact on Heart Health

Air pollution does not only affect the lungs. Fine particles enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation.

Long-term exposure increases risk of:

hypertension
heart attack
stroke
atherosclerosis

ICMR reports show cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality in India, with pollution being a significant contributing factor.

Impact on Immune System

Constant exposure to polluted air weakens the immune response.

This leads to:

frequent respiratory infections
slower recovery from illness
increased susceptibility to viral diseases

Pollution also increases systemic inflammation.

Effect on Children’s Health

Children are particularly vulnerable because:

their lungs are still developing
they breathe more air relative to body weight
they spend time outdoors

Long-term exposure may reduce lung growth and increase asthma risk.

Impact on Pregnant Women and Infants

Research published in Lancet indicates that high pollution exposure during pregnancy increases risk of:

low birth weight
premature birth
developmental complications

Protecting pregnant women from pollution exposure is critical.

Air Pollution and Cancer Risk

Prolonged exposure to air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer.

WHO classifies outdoor air pollution as a carcinogen.

Mental Health and Cognitive Impact

Emerging research suggests pollution may contribute to:

cognitive decline
mood disorders
reduced concentration

Clean air supports brain health.

Seasonal Pollution in India

During winter months, many cities experience severe smog due to:

crop burning
temperature inversion
increased emissions

Monitoring Air Quality Index (AQI) helps individuals take precautions.

Signs of Pollution-Related Health Impact

persistent cough
chest tightness
eye irritation
unusual fatigue
worsening asthma

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult healthcare providers.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Exposure

Monitor AQI

Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution days.

Use Protective Masks

N95 masks filter fine particles effectively.

Indoor Air Quality

Use air purifiers and keep windows closed during peak pollution.

Avoid High-Traffic Areas

Limit time near busy roads.

Maintain Healthy Lifestyle

Strong immunity helps reduce pollution-related health risks.

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Regular screening for:

lung function
blood pressure
heart health

helps detect early damage caused by pollution.

Urban populations should prioritise routine health checkups.

Long-Term Public Health Impact

Air pollution contributes significantly to:

healthcare burden
productivity loss
economic strain

Preventive awareness and environmental policies are essential.

Conclusion

The impact of air pollution on human health is profound and far-reaching. From respiratory disorders and heart disease to immune suppression and increased cancer risk, polluted air affects nearly every organ system. In India’s urban environment, proactive measures such as monitoring AQI, using protective masks and maintaining regular health screenings are crucial. Protecting oneself from air pollution is not just about comfort—it is a vital step in preserving long-term health and preventing chronic disease.

References

World Health Organization (WHO) – Air Pollution and Health Reports
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Environmental Health Studies
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Respiratory and Cardiovascular Data
NITI Aayog – Environmental and Preventive Health Strategy Reports
Lancet – Global Burden of Disease and Air Pollution Research

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