- All vaccines offer >90% protection against severe COVID-19, including variants.
- Vaccine-induced immunity is stronger and longer-lasting than natural infection.
- Mixing vaccines (e.g., AstraZeneca with Pfizer) is safe and effective, boosting antibodies.
- Antibody maturation continues for months after vaccination, increasing protection over time.
- The Indian variant (B.1.617) is not a 'monster'; current vaccines still prevent severe disease.
- Summer 2021 is expected to have very low COVID-19 numbers in the Netherlands.
- Booster shots may be needed by winter, but no evidence yet; 1 billion doses reserved by EU.
- Testing data becomes less reliable; hospital admissions and wastewater surveillance are more accurate.
- Aerosol transmission is now officially recognized; ventilation is key alongside distancing.
- Vaccination pace is high (over 1 million shots per week in Netherlands), accelerating age groups.
- Global vaccination is crucial to prevent new variants and control the pandemic.