Oxford vaccine effective against UK variant: Study

LONDON: The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is effective against the rapidly spreading variant of coronavirus that originated in the UK, but is likely less effective against the South African strain, its manufacturers have said.

New research found that the jab combats the “Kent variant” that led to a surge of new virus cases late last year.

Data also reveals further signs that the vaccine can work to reduce transmission. Dr. June Raine, CEO of the UK medical regulator, said the results are “very reassuring.”