Call
+918447748545

Published on: Apr 04, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

THE CHALLENGES FACED IN MAKING A VACCINE FOR COVID-19 — Part 2

Previously we’ve seen the difficulties researches face in trying to make a vaccine. But even if we make a vaccine, that’s just half the battle. Viruses are unique because they can mutate, and they can mutate to astonishing degrees. In humans mutations to tiny parts of our DNA can cause severe diseases or even death. In viruses mutations can change their structure, making them more infective and giving them a new coat. It gives them a survival advantage, the ability to evade our immune system and make our vaccines ineffective. This is why we need a new flu vaccine every year.

If it takes months to a year to develop a vaccine, it will be based off the virus found in December 2019. By this time the virus may have spread and mutated to such a degree that it is not effective. This does not mean all the effort was for nothing. Going through the steps and understanding the issues faced with making a COVID-19 vaccine can make the process quicker for subsequent vaccines against its mutated versions.

https://www.sciencealert.com/who-says-a-coronavirus-vaccine-is-18-months-away So Long to Develop a Vaccine

FAILURES FROM THE PAST

These issues were faced during the Ebola and Zika virus epidemics, and many large companies are understandably hesitant to develop vaccines for COVID-19. Ebola first broke out in 2014, and it was only in December 2019 that the first vaccine was approved for use by the European Commission and the United States. This is despite multiple large institutes in Canada and the UK working together to develop it.

13 different Ebola vaccine candidates had been identified soon after the outbreak, but none had been tested on humans. Unfortunately this is the most expensive part of development, and the area biopharmecuticals stand to loose the most money. Return on investments is also low, since epidemics usually take place in poorer countries, and the potential customers are unable to pay the high prices for these brand new treatments. It is an unfortunate realisation that research into medicines is driven by rich countries, for diseases that affect the rich.

https://newint.org/features/web-exclusive/2016/06/16/why-did-the-market-fail-to-produce-an-ebola-vaccine Ebola

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

This is all well and good, but what does it mean for COVID-19? We know we cannot rush a vaccine, because a poorly designed vaccine with unknown side effects can cause more harm than good, especially if given to children or the elderly. Currently the WHO are tracking 31 different attempts at making a COVID-19 vaccine, using different methods as discussed before. All of these are currently in the pre-clinical stage, focusing on isolating parts of the virus and creating a target the body will recognise and react to.

Researchers at the University of Queensland were one of the first to start using the genetic code of COVID-19, released openly by Chinese researchers. They have developed a test vaccine within 6 weeks using state-of-the-art genetic techniques, used for the first time. If animal models prove successful then human testing might begin within 6 months. In the pharmaceutical industry advancements this quick are almost unheard of.

Additionally over 293 clinical trials are taking place in China using existing drugs on the market. The advantage is we already know these drugs are safe to use in humans, but we are trying to work out if they will work against COVID-19. Some scientists are also looking at medications that were initially developed against SARS and MERS, but never completed because these outbreaks died down and the medication was no longer required.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/china-recovered-develop-effective-covid-19-treatments-200302082850237.html COVID-19 treatments

https://www.who.int/blueprint/priority-diseases/key-action/novel-coronavirus-landscape-ncov.pdf?ua=1 WHO news

https://www.theverge.com/2020/2/28/21156385/covid-coronavirus-vaccine-treatment-moderna-remdesivir-research COVID-19 treatment

Its not all doom and gloom. Challenges drive innovation, and we are already benefitting from this. New forms of genetic sequencing, new methods for extracting viral proteins, new techniques in creating a vaccine. These innovations are already benefitting us on the drive to create an effective vaccine for COVID-19, and they will benefit us in the future when the next pandemic hits.

Dr Rajan Choudhary, Product Manager Second Medic UK

www.secondmedic.com

Read Blog

Masseuse Visits: How Monthly Stress Relief Camps Improve Workplace Well-Being

Stress has become one of the most common health challenges of modern life. Long working hours, screen exposure, sedentary routines and emotional pressures create a constant state of physical and mental tension. Over time, this stress accumulates and begins to affect sleep, productivity, immunity and emotional stability. This is why masseuse visits through monthly stress relief camps are emerging as a valuable wellness intervention.

These camps are not about luxury or indulgence. They are structured, preventive wellness initiatives designed to help people relax, reset and restore balance in their bodies and minds.

Why Stress Needs Structured Management

Stress is not always visible, but its impact is real.

Chronic stress contributes to:

muscle tension and body pain
headaches and migraines
anxiety and irritability
sleep disturbances
weakened immunity

According to WHO, unmanaged stress is a significant risk factor for both physical and mental health disorders.

What Are Monthly Stress Relief Camps?

Monthly stress relief camps are organised wellness sessions that focus on relaxation-based therapies. Massage visits form a central component of these camps, where trained therapists provide structured massage sessions aimed at relieving physical tension and calming the nervous system.

These camps typically include:

short therapeutic massage sessions
guided relaxation techniques
posture awareness
breathing exercises

They are designed to be accessible, time-efficient and safe.

How Massage Therapy Reduces Stress

Massage works through multiple biological pathways.

Nervous System Regulation

Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and recovery. This helps:

lower heart rate
reduce blood pressure
calm the mind

Reduction of Stress Hormones

Studies show massage lowers cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone.

Lower cortisol is linked to:

improved mood
better sleep
enhanced immune response

Muscle Relaxation

Long hours of sitting or standing cause muscle stiffness.

Massage helps by:

improving blood flow
releasing muscle knots
reducing stiffness

This improves physical comfort.

Mental Health Benefits of Masseuse Visits

Mental health is closely tied to physical relaxation.

Regular massage sessions:

reduce anxiety
promote calmness
improve emotional stability
enhance overall mood

Lancet research highlights the role of physical relaxation techniques in supporting mental health outcomes.

Why Monthly Frequency Matters

One-time relaxation is not enough.

Monthly camps:

provide consistent relief
prevent stress buildup
encourage routine self-care

Consistency is the foundation of preventive wellness.

Who Benefits from Stress Relief Camps?

These camps benefit:

working professionals
caregivers
students
frontline workers
individuals with sedentary lifestyles

Anyone experiencing chronic stress can benefit.

Workplace Impact of Stress

Workplace stress affects both individuals and organisations.

It leads to:

reduced productivity
burnout
absenteeism
poor job satisfaction

NITI Aayog reports emphasize the need for preventive wellness initiatives at workplaces.

How Masseuse Visits Improve Workplace Wellness

Enhanced Focus and Productivity

Relaxed muscles and a calm mind improve concentration.

Reduced Musculoskeletal Pain

Massage addresses:

neck pain
shoulder tension
lower back discomfort

Common in desk-based roles.

Better Sleep Quality

Stress relief improves sleep, which further enhances mental clarity.

Positive Workplace Culture

Wellness initiatives show employees that their health matters.

Physical Health Benefits Beyond Relaxation

Massage therapy improves:

circulation
lymphatic drainage
joint mobility
posture awareness

These benefits reduce long-term health risks.

Safety and Professional Standards

Masseuse visits in stress relief camps should:

use trained professionals
follow hygiene protocols
offer non-invasive techniques
respect personal boundaries

Safety and dignity are essential.

Integration with Preventive Healthcare

Stress relief camps complement:

health screenings
mental health counseling
nutrition programs
fitness initiatives

They form part of a holistic wellness ecosystem.

How Monthly Camps Encourage Self-Care

Many people ignore early stress signals.

Regular wellness camps:

normalize self-care
promote early intervention
reduce stigma around mental health

This proactive approach prevents burnout.

Measuring the Impact of Stress Relief Camps

Impact can be assessed through:

stress level surveys
absenteeism rates
employee feedback
productivity metrics

Data helps refine future programs.

Long-Term Value of Stress Relief Programs

Over time, organisations notice:

improved morale
reduced healthcare costs
higher engagement
stronger loyalty

Preventive care always costs less than treatment.

Common Myths About Massage-Based Wellness

Myth: Massage is only for luxury

Reality: It is a validated stress management technique.

Myth: It is temporary relief

Reality: Regular sessions offer cumulative benefits.

Myth: Only physical benefits exist

Reality: Mental and emotional benefits are equally important.

Why Holistic Stress Management Matters

Stress affects:

hormones
digestion
immunity
sleep
emotional regulation

Addressing it holistically leads to lasting improvement.

Conclusion

Masseuse visits through monthly stress relief camps offer far more than temporary relaxation. They represent a structured, preventive approach to managing stress, enhancing mental well-being and supporting physical health. In a world where burnout is becoming increasingly common, consistent wellness interventions help individuals reset, recharge and regain balance. By investing in regular stress relief programs, communities and organisations build healthier, happier and more resilient individuals.

References

World Health Organization (WHO) – Stress and Mental Health Reports
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Lifestyle and Stress Research
NITI Aayog – Workplace Wellness and Preventive Healthcare Reports
Lancet – Stress, Burnout and Mental Health Studies
Statista – Global Workplace Wellness Trends
EY-FICCI – Corporate Wellness and Productivity Reports

Request A Callback

+91

By using this website/app, I confirm that I am at least 18 years old and consent to the processing of my personal data in accordance with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Declaration.