Final answer:
The primary purpose of the AZD1222 Vaccine is to protect against COVID-19 by using a viral vector to deliver a piece of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the body. It distinguishes itself from other vaccines by using a weakened adenovirus as the viral vector instead of mRNA technology. Challenges with distribution include the need for cold storage and concerns about rare instances of blood clots.
Step-by-step explanation:
The AZD1222 Vaccine, also known as the AstraZeneca vaccine, was developed primarily to protect against COVID-19. It works by using a harmless virus called a viral vector to deliver a piece of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, into the body. This prompts the immune system to produce an immune response, including the production of antibodies, which can then recognize and attack the actual virus if the person is exposed to it.
What distinguishes AZD1222 from other vaccines in development is the use of a viral vector, specifically a weakened version of a chimpanzee adenovirus, to deliver the SARS-CoV-2 genetic material. Some other COVID-19 vaccines, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, use messenger RNA (mRNA) technology to deliver instructions to the body's cells to produce a viral protein.
Challenges associated with the distribution of AZD1222 include the need for cold storage, as the vaccine needs to be kept at a temperature between 2-8 degrees Celsius. This can be a logistical challenge in places with limited refrigeration capacity, especially in developing countries. Additionally, there have been concerns about rare instances of blood clots associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine, which have led to temporary suspensions of its use in some countries.