At a time of much discussion, Roberto Medronho, professor of epidemiology at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), told the CNN that, despite the latest studies have shown good results of booster doses against the Ômicron variant (B.1.1.529), the government’s decision not to require the vaccine passport is wrong.
“Actually, we talk about some variants that are important, but there are thousands compared to the original virus. Every time there’s a copy of the virus, it can come out faulty – just like a photocopied if you take a million [de cópias], there will be a bad one.
“He explains that the result of the study of Pfizer, that the third dose increases immunity against Ômicron, is good, but “it is too early for us to say that the other vaccines will be effective against the variants.
”The B.1.1.529 strain is different from those detected so far. The professor explains that, in this case, “the number of mutations in protein S reached 32 – it is the key that opens the door for our cells.
”Compared to the Delta variant, “the key to Omicron it is much more efficient”, he assesses.
“As there was this mutation, our antibodies may not recognize the virus. It bypasses our defense cells, interacting with our cells in a more intelligent way than others, and this can increase the transmissibility of the Covid.”
And for this reason, the epidemiologist explains that the time is for caution. For him, the country should demand the vaccine certificate for people who come to Brazil.
“In my opinion, the vaccination passport should be adopted for everyone who arrives in Brazil, because a person who disembarks unvaccinated can spread the virus among us. Of course the vaccinated one too, but the chance is much smaller.”
Still, he defends the right of those who don’t want to get vaccinated — for personal reasons. Despite this, the collective right must override the individual, according to the expert.
“The person may have the right not to be vaccinated, but he cannot have the same mobility [que uma pessoa vacinada].”
five day quarantine
THE federal government backed down in the decision to adopt a measure of restriction to those who arrive in Brazil after a hacker attack last Friday (10).
The epidemiologist criticizes the decision: “First, five days is too little. Another thing, how will this quarantine be inspected?”
He recalls that two-thirds of international arrivals arrive through São Paulo airport.
“Who will do this control? My fear is that we are the paradise of the unvaccinated, because a lot of people will come here [se não exigirmos o passaporte].”
For him, the person [que chegar infectada], will disseminate Ômicron in the Brazil.
“The most appropriate measure is to require a vaccination certificate for everyone who arrives in the country.”
The moment is also of caution with the arrival of the end-of-year festivities. “In public health, we must prepare for the worst by hoping for the best. So let’s protect ourselves”, he concludes.
Reference: CNN Brasil
