An AstraZeneca representative explained that their vaccine candidate, AZD1222, contains the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein. The changes in the genetic code of the new viral strain do not affect the structure of the spike protein. Drug manufacturers are rushing to test their COVID-19 vaccines against the highly contagious new variant of the virus spreading rapidly in Britain. Vaccination with AZD1222 trains the immune system to recognize various parts of the spike protein to combat the virus upon exposure. The B.1.1.7 lineage mutation, which may be up to 70% more infectious and particularly concerning for children, has caused chaos in Britain, leading to travel bans and trade disruptions with Europe. The AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is seen as important for countries with lower incomes and warmer climates due to its affordability, ease of transportation, and ability to be stored at regular refrigerator temperatures for extended periods. Recent data from AstraZeneca's trials in the UK and Brazil showed varying levels of efficacy, with the vaccine showing 62% efficacy for those given two full doses and 90% efficacy for a smaller group given a half dose followed by a full dose. India is expected to approve the emergency use of AstraZeneca's vaccine by next week, according to a report from Reuters on Tuesday.