The European Union has approved use of several two-shot COVID vaccines. On February 12, 2021 France24 confirmed the French government decided a single shot was adequate for people who already had the infection. It says France believes one shot for previously infected citizens should be sufficient because they already have kick starter efficiency.
Why Is France Making This Departure Now?
The European Union sets policies within which member nations administer their affairs independently. France has a current shortfall of vaccines it needs to rapidly roll out its immunization program. The local decision may be related to this. However, if it works – as it may well – then this could have huge international implications.
France’s public health authority says previously infected people develop an immune response similar to the effect of a vaccine. In theory, this could mean they only need a booster shot to reinforce their protection. ‘A single vaccine dose will also play the role of reminding’ their immune system how to fight Covid-19, the agency told France24. However, in this case they suggest spacing it three to six months later.
France’s One Shot Policy for Previously Infected People
The national health authority Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) appears to have solid reasons for its decision. Because previous studies demonstrated a single dose of Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccine worked well on people with past infections. This was apparently because their bodies were already ‘primed’ to produce antibodies.
One shot for previously infected people in France could therefore help limited quantities of vaccine go further. This would particularly apply to countries with high infection rates, where the need for inoculation is urgent.
We shall watch this bold initiative with interest, and report back on progress as it evolves. It’s important we keep our minds open on this, and allow our imagination free range to explore.
Related
New Face Mask Advice as Kent Virus Spreads
Failure to Communicate About COVID Vaccine
Preview Image: Haute Autorité de Santé
