Why Pfizer Is Our Best Bet For The Long Haul

Right now, Australia is seriously lagging in the vaccine rollout. It is critical that over 50s are getting the AstraZeneca vaccine as quickly as possible, and that under 50s are receiving an alternative soon. But going forward, mRNA vaccines such as Pfizer are our best bet – here’s why.

We know that immunity to other coronaviruses wanes over time. For example, the coronaviruses which cause the common cold are always circulating because our immunity to them doesn’t last. Similarly, our immunity to the COVID-19 virus will likely wane over time, especially as new variants arise.

As a result, we will likely need booster shots each year, to boost immunity and vaccinate against any new variants. Unfortunately, viral vector vaccines like AstraZeneca can’t be used repeatedly. If you are repeatedly vaccinated with this type of vaccine, you’re likely to develop immunity to components of the vaccine rather than the virus itself. By contrast, mRNA vaccines like Pfizer can updated extremely quickly for new variants, and don’t contain other components that your immune system recognises.

This is why it’s absolutely vital Australia starts manufacturing mRNA vaccines going forward. We are in this for the long haul, and need to plan accordingly. The CPAP Clinic is a leading Australian provider of Respiratory, Sleep Disorders, Cardiology and PPE services and products. Based in Sydney, it has a network of 40 clinics nationwide.