While the numbers remain relatively low, the risk of it spreading remains, says Minister of Health Paulette Lenert in a parliamentary response to ADR MP Jeff Engelen.
Engelen wanted to enquire whether the state would vaccinate health personnel with the AstraZeneca vaccine following studies that it may be less effective against the B.1.531 variant compared to other vaccines.
Lenert explained that the World Health Organisation's SAGE Committee (Strategic Advisory Group of Experts) suggested to continue administering the AstraZeneca jab, even in countries where the variant is present. Furthermore, extensive sequencing will be necessary to keep an eye on the development of such variants. Luxembourg will expand its sequencing capacity, the minister stated.
In a situation where vaccines are already scarce, one cannot simply waive AstraZeneca vaccines, Lenert stressed. At the end of the day, the vaccine would still protect people from the most severe health effects of coronavirus.
