The need for novel influenza vaccines in low- and middle-income countries
Author Information
Author(s): Spinardi Julia R., Thakkar Karan B., Welch Verna L., Jagun Oladayo, Kyaw Moe H.
Primary Institution: Pfizer Inc.
Hypothesis
There is a need for novel influenza vaccines to address the limitations of existing vaccines in low- and middle-income countries.
Conclusion
Novel influenza vaccines are essential to improve vaccination coverage and reduce the public health burden of influenza in low- and middle-income countries.
Supporting Evidence
- Influenza viruses cause millions of severe cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths each year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
- Current vaccines have limitations, including lower effectiveness in older adults and those with chronic conditions.
- Novel vaccine platforms are in development to address the shortcomings of existing vaccines.
Takeaway
Influenza vaccines are important for keeping people healthy, but many countries don't have enough good vaccines. We need new ones to help everyone stay safe.
Methodology
This is a narrative review discussing the unmet needs of existing influenza vaccines and the characteristics of novel vaccines in clinical development.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of bias due to disparities in vaccine access and effectiveness across different regions.
Limitations
Current vaccines are less effective in older adults and those with compromised immunity, and they require annual reformulation due to the virus's evolution.
Participant Demographics
The review focuses on low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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