Why the COVID-19 vaccination in the same hand can enhance the immune response

Memorable B cells after the first injection remain in the nearest injection site lymph nodes

Irinazharkova31/Depositphotos

Scientists have found that vaccination with a primary and booster dose in the same hand is more effective.

This is evidenced by the results of the study, Posted in Cell’s magazine, writes Popular Science.

Scientists have found that after vaccination in the lymph nodes, specialized cells of immunity – macrophages are activated. They help to « train » memorable B cells, which later respond faster and more powerful to the booster if it is introduced into the same place.

During vaccination, a safe version of the pathogen – antigen enters the body. It is filtered through lymph nodes that work as training camps for the immune system.

Researchers have found that commemorative B cells remain lymph nodes in the injection site closest to the injection site. There they interact closely with macrophages. When vaccinated in the same hand, these « navigators » instantly activate commemorative B cells, which triggers more powerful and faster the production of antibodies.

« Macrophages not only absorb pathogens – they also conduct an effective immune response during a re -encounter with the virus« , – explains the co -author of the study and immunologist Rama Danny.

The clinical trial was attended by 30 people who received a Pfizer-Biontech vaccine against the Covid-19. Half the participants of the vaccination were made in one hand, the other half – in different ones.

Those who were vaccinated in the same hand began to produce neutralizing antibodies in a week. Moreover, their immunity was more resistant to the dangerous variants of the virus, such as Delta and Omicron.

« If we learn to enhance this interaction, we will be able to create vaccines that will need fewer boosters »– explains the clinical immunologist Trian fan.

Four weeks of antibodies in both groups, it was equalized, although the first weeks after vaccination can be critical during the epidemic.

« If you made vaccinations in different hands – don’t worry. But if it is a rapid increase in immunity during a pandemic, it is better to use the same hand »– said the co -author of the study and immunologists Munier.

We will remind, we have explained earlier whether it is possible to combine Several calendar and recommended vaccinations for one visit.

But scientists also noted that some vaccines have side effects. For example, COVID-19 vaccination can cause pain or swelling at the injection site, fatigue and headache.