A new longitudinal study by researchers in Germany reveals that vaccinated individuals on chronic hemodialysis show declining immunity to variants of concern of the SARS-CoV-2. In addition, researchers observed a decrease in neutralizing antibody levels and T-cell activity four months after receiving their second dose. Hemodialysis requires in-person treatment, increasing the risk of coronavirus exposure or self-isolation. The findings of this study support the need for a third booster shot in hemodialysis patients and other people at high risk of coronavirus exposure.
Study details The immunological response of 76 individuals on hemodialysis was measured several weeks after vaccination. A control group of roughly 23 healthcare workers with no underlying health issues was also tested. Four months after receiving their second shot, B-cells, T-cells, and vaccine-induced neutralizing…
