Moderna says its booster shot effective against Omicron

Moderna Covid-19 booster can boost neutralising antibody levels 37-fold higher than pre-boost levels.

Washington: US drugmaker Moderna on Monday announced that its booster shot increases neutralising antibodies against the new vaccine evading Omicron variant, compared to two doses.

An authorised dose of 50 microgram booster increased neutralising antibody levels against Omicron by approximately 37-fold compared to pre-boost levels, the company said in a statement.

"The dramatic increase in Covid-19 cases from the Omicron variant is concerning to all. However, these data showing that the currently authorised Moderna Covid-19 booster can boost neutralising antibody levels 37-fold higher than pre-boost levels are reassuring," said Stephane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of Moderna, in the statement.