Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
5.Mixing the two types of vaccine may give the immune system multiple ways to recognize a pathogen. Two different vaccines may be more potent than either vaccine alone but mixing must be exercised with caution. Critically Analyse. (250 words)
Reference: Live Mint
Why the question:
Faced with short supplies of COVID-19 vaccines and unforeseen side effects, some countries have adopted an unproven strategy: switching shots midstream. This article analyses its effects and efficacy.
Key Demand of the question:
To weigh in the pros and cons for mixing of vaccines and to advocate a cautious approach to mixing of vaccines.
Directive:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgement.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by writing the need for mixing vaccines – compulsion because of shortage, improved efficacy and response, multiple ways to prevent pathogen multiplicity etc.
Body:
In the first part of the body, write about the current studies done across the world which and in India by ICMR, wherein the vaccine mixture has elicited better immunogenicity. Mixing boosting the antibody response, better at triggering T cell responses etc.
In the next part, write the need to exercise caution the above regard. Lack of data, clinical trials, long terms effects of mixing vaccine, presence of large number of combinations in vaccines etc. Mention the recent WHO and Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) advisory on mixing.
Conclusion:
Summarize a way forward that introducing booster doses of a different vaccine should be firmly evidence-driven and targeted at population groups in greatest need.
