LUCKNOW: Antibodies developed after Covid vaccination or contracting novel coronavirus infection are stronger in the younger lot aged between 18-40 years in comparison to higher age groups, a new study by King George’s Medical University has revealed.
The findings of the study conducted by the university’s transfusion medicine department also reveal that the men had more antibodies than women. This, said experts, means that women and higher age group people need to take more precautions against the virus to avoid infection/reinfection.
Good or better antibodies in terms of functionality means their ability to neutralize the antigen upon getting infected.
Commissioned by vicechancellor Lt Gen (retd) Dr Bipin Puri, the study examined blood samples of 2,000 people, including healthcare workers, for antibodies. The participants included those who have taken a dose of vaccine or fully vaccinated with two doses. Among these, some had also contracted Covid-19. There were also some who got infected but were not vaccinated.
Of the total sample size, 90% (1,800) were found to be having antibodies against Covid-19 either acquired after natural infection or induced by inoculation.
“Data analysis revealed that people aged 18-40 years had good antibodies. The ratio of antibodies present in men and women was 70:30,” said head, transfusion medicine, Prof Tulika Chandra, under whom the study was conducted.
“More research is required to find out why men and the 18-40 age group developed better antibodies. It could be because women are not very well nourished as compared to men. Similarly, it could be presumed that the younger lot has a stronger immune system that helps them in developing good antibodies,” she added. In the second part of the study, KGMU will be restudying the vaccinated group to ascertain how long antibodies last.
