Dr. Béla Merkely, Rector of Semmelweis University spoke about the coronavirus on M1 channel and in the TV programme Hungary live of Hír TV.
“Immunity against the coronavirus has not been built yet, which is why there are so many infected all around the world. Vaccine is expected to be developed by the end of the fall the earliest and it will be given first to the elderly, who are at risk the most.”, said the Rector of Semmelweis University in a programme of the M1 TV channel.
Semmelweis University set up a consortium to study the immune response to coronavirus infection, epidemiological studies are being conducted, the results of the diagnostic tests are being analysed and special screenings are being performed to determine how many people could have been infected so far. According to Dr. Béla Merkely the government made quick and efficient decisions, thus Hungary has gained a substantial headway in the fight against the virus.
“Research has begun at Semmelweis University to investigate the immune responses to the coronavirus. It is important to find the most efficient mechanism of the defense system in order to properly aid the process of healing. ”, said Dr. Béla Merkely in the programme Hungary live of Hír TV channel.
The patient’s general state of health and the genetic features of the pathogen determine the extent of harm the virus can cause in individuals. Diabetes, high blood pressure and coronary heart disease can develop conditions which the virus is easily able to damage.
“It is estimated that the contagion rate may be around 5% in Budapest and in the agglomeration based on a sample of 2,000. According to international data, people who have been infected will be protected against the coronavirus for a few years.”, said Dr. Béla Merkely.
Source: Department of Communication and Events
Translation: Ágnes Raubinek
