Is a universal influenza vaccine feasible?

Abstract

The influenza virus causes significant human morbidity and mortality annually and poses a pandemic threat. In addition, the virus frequently mutates, contributing to thousands of identified strains. Current influenza vaccine solutions are strain specific, target existing strains, and achieve only approximately 40% vaccine effectiveness (VE). The need for broadly protective Universal Influenza Vaccines (UIVs) is clear. UIV research and development efforts focus on widely conserved (i.e. not strain specific) influenza epitopes. The most clinically advanced UIV candidate, the Multimeric-001 (M-001), is currently undergoing a pivotal, clinical efficacy, phase III trial. Completed clinical trials indicate M-001 is safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic to a broad range of influenza strains. Additional candidates are also under development, supported by public and private funding. Research results suggest that it is only a matter of time until a broadly protective influenza vaccine is approved for licensure.