University of Oxford

UK Coronavirus Vaccine Could Cut COVID-19 Transmission by 67 Percent | Eater London

"A preliminary, not-yet-peer-reviewed study from researchers at the institution reports that the AstraZeneca–Oxford COVID-19 vaccine may reduce transmission by up to 67%. If replicable, the result suggests that at least one of the vaccines planned for use in the U.K. could both prevent symptomatic disease and severe illness and substantially cut asymptomatic spread — which accounts for as much as a third of infections — thereby lowering case numbers. That potential has been welcomed by officials and could help hospitality businesses, workers, and diners by shortening the time restrictions are needed and allowing trading and occupancy to move closer to normal, though it does not guarantee reopening without controls. The finding is hopeful rather than conclusive: the data await formal publication and peer review, other spike-protein–targeting vaccines might show similar effects, and emerging variants may blunt some transmission protection even if they continue to protect against severe disease. Health secretary Matt Hancock called the study “superb,” while industry reaction so far is limited, with publications seeking comment from trade groups and restaurants yet to meaningfully respond." - James Hansen