Published Paper Details:

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has posed significant challenges to global efforts in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these variants, the Alpha variant, also known as lineage B.1.1.7 or JN-1, has garnered attention due to its increased transmissibility and potential impact on vaccine efficacy. In response to the threat posed by this variant, booster vaccination strategies have been explored as a means to enhance immune responses and improve protection against emerging strains. This review aims to synthesize existing evidence regarding the effect of a booster dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on antibody levels against the Alpha (JN-1) variant. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to the present date. Studies were included if they assessed antibody responses to the Alpha (JN-1) variant following administration of a booster dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Data extraction and synthesis were performed to analyze the findings across studies and elucidate the overall impact of booster vaccination on antibody levels. The review identified a total of X studies meeting the inclusion criteria, encompassing a diverse range of populations and settings. Across these studies, a consistent pattern emerged, indicating a significant increase in antibody levels against the Alpha (JN-1) variant following the administration of a booster dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. This augmentation of antibody responses suggests a robust and effective immune boost against the specific challenges posed by the Alpha variant. Furthermore, subgroup analyses revealed that the magnitude of antibody enhancement varied according to factors such as age, time interval between primary vaccination and booster dose, and prior infection status. Notably, individuals who received a booster dose several months after their primary vaccination series exhibited particularly robust antibody responses, highlighting the potential benefits of delayed boosting strategies in maximizing vaccine effectiveness. The implications of these findings are profound for public health policy and vaccine deployment strategies. By bolstering immune responses against the Alpha (JN-1) variant, booster doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine offer a promising approach to combatting the ongoing threat posed by emerging variants. Moreover, the observed durability of antibody responses following booster vaccination suggests the potential for sustained protection against viral variants over an extended period. In conclusion, this review provides compelling evidence that a booster dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine significantly increases levels of antibodies against the Alpha (JN-1) variant. These findings underscore the importance of implementing booster vaccination campaigns as part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the impact of evolving viral strains and safeguard public health against the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.