Moderna vaccine appears to offer strongest protection against COVID
According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two-dose regimens of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccines provided a high level of protection against COVID-19 hospitalizations in a real-world evaluation at 21 U.S. hospitals during the period between March 11 and August 15.
Vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 hospitalization for Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech doses were 93 percent and 88 percent, respectively, whereas the single-dose Janssen [Johnson & Johnson] vaccine had a lower effectiveness rate at 71 percent.
Protection for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine declined four months after vaccination.
Released Friday, September 17, the report revealed that individuals vaccinated with the Janssen vaccine also had lower post-vaccination anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels than did recipients of mRNA vaccines.
In addition, although an immunologic correlate of protection has not been established for COVID-19 vaccines, the researchers found that antibody titers after infection and vaccination have been associated with protection.
“These real-world data suggest that the 2-dose Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine regimens provide more protection than does the 1-dose Janssen viral vector vaccine regimen,” the researchers wrote.
“Although the Janssen vaccine had lower observed vaccine effectiveness, one dose of Janssen vaccine still reduced risk for COVID-19–associated hospitalization by 71 percent.”
The study included 3,689 patients.
Overall, 2,362 (64 percent) were unvaccinated; 476 (12.9 percent) were fully vaccinated with the Moderna vaccine; 738 (20 percent) were fully vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and 113 (3.1 percent) were fully vaccinated with the Janssen vaccine.
Among all participants, the median age was 58 years, 48 percent female, 23 percent non-Hispanic Black, and 18 percent Hispanic.
Efficacy for the Moderna vaccine was 93 percent at 14 to 120 days (the median equaled 66 days) after receiving the second vaccine dose and 92 percent after 120 days (with the median equaling 141 days).
For Pfizer-BioNTech, efficacy stood at 91 percent at 14 to 120 days (the median equaled 69 days) after receiving the second vaccine dose but declined significantly to 77 percent at more than 120 days (the median equaled 143 days).
The postvaccination antibody analysis included 100 healthy volunteers, 32 fully vaccinated with Moderna, 51 fully vaccinated with Pfizer-BioNTech, and 17 with Janssen.
Antibody levels were higher in participants vaccinated with the Moderna vaccine than those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine or the Janssen vaccine.
The report revealed that anti-spike levels in participants vaccinated with the Moderna vaccine did not significantly differ from those in recipients of the Pfizer-BioNTech but were considerably higher than levels in participants who received the Janssen.
The report arrives as a U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel reviewed the need for booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.
The panel also expected to vote on whether the agency should approve additional doses for people 16 and older.
“We will evaluate and see,” said Dr. James Hildreth, the president and CEO of Meharry Medical College and an FDA panelist deciding on the booster shots.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
