In response to the recent surge in SARS-CoV-2 cases, a team of doctors at Yale University, led by Dr. Shaili Gupta, an associate professor of medicine, has developed a tool to assist individuals in determining whether they require a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Dr. Gupta, specializing in general medicine at the Yale School of Medicine, crafted an algorithm to aid in this decision-making process, building upon research initiated in 2020.
The research methodology involved collecting specimens both before and after individuals received COVID-19 vaccinations. Dr. Gupta highlighted the significance of examining neutralizing antibodies, the gold standard for assessing the body’s ability to neutralize the virus. This approach allowed the team to observe the fluctuations in antibody levels, their rise after booster doses, duration, and the impact of various clinical variables.
Exploring more than 80 clinical variables, the research team identified key factors influencing the strength and duration of neutralizing antibodies post-vaccination. Recognizing the challenges of assessing neutralizing antibodies—due to cost and availability—Dr. Gupta sought to enhance accessibility by conducting tests on the same samples using a cost-effective commercially available platform.
Beyond her research contributions, Dr. Gupta serves as the associate program director for the Yale Internal Medicine residency program and holds positions as vice-chair and director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at VA Connecticut. Additionally, she leads the Race, Bias, and Advocacy in Medicine Distinction Pathway track in the Internal Medicine Residency Program.
Dr. Gupta’s extensive dedication spans over a decade, during which she has served as a research supervisor, thesis advisor, and mentor to students, residents, fellows, and faculty. Her academic journey includes completing her MBBS at Sawai Man Singh Medical College in Rajasthan, India, followed by residency at the University of Maryland, Union Memorial Hospital, and a fellowship at Yale University.
