I’m looking at the scientific literature where actual testing has been done to find out the real answer. The literature to date says that all testing indicates that all variants are covered by the vaccines.
Further, if the vaccine doesn’t cover you, a previous COVID-19 infection will not either since they’re producing the same antibodies.
The South African variant (B.1.351)
The South African variant is perhaps the most concerning one vaccine-wise. It shares some similar mutations with the Brazilian mutation, which affect the virus’ spike protein. However, this variant triggered a much larger reduction in virus neutralization.
The variant has already spread internationally, with over 100 cases being detected in the UK, Israel, Austria, and the Netherlands — though the real incidence is probably much higher. The variant is not believed to be more dangerous, but it is more contagious than the original virus, possibly comparable to the UK variant.
Do vaccines work on the South African variant?
The AstraZeneca vaccine: The vaccine shows a 9-fold reduction in efficiency compared to the original virus.
South Africa stopped vaccinations with the AstraZeneca vaccine after the vaccine was found to be ineffective. Overall vaccine efficacy against mild-to-moderate COVID-19 for the variant was found to be 10.4%. However, the jury is still out on whether the vaccine can protect against severe cases and make them milder.
The reverse would be concerning if true as well.