Tackling a novel lethal virus: a focus on H7N9 vaccine development
Irina Isakova-Sivak1, Larisa Rudenko1
1a Department of Virology , Institute of Experimental Medicine , Saint Petersburg , Russia.
Introduction:
Avian-origin H7N9 influenza viruses first detected in humans in China in 2013 continue to cause severe human infections with a mortality rate close to 40%. These viruses are acknowledged as the subtype most likely to cause the next influenza pandemic. Areas covered: Here we review published data on the development of H7N9 influenza vaccine candidates and their evaluation in preclinical and clinical trials identified on PubMed database with the term 'H7N9 influenza vaccine'. In addition, a search with the same term was done on ClinicalTrials.gov to find ongoing clinical trials with H7N9 vaccines. Expert commentary: Influenza vaccines are the most powerful tool for protecting the human population from influenza infections, both seasonal and pandemic. During the past four years, a large number of promising H7N9 influenza vaccine candidates have been generated using traditional and advanced gene engineering techniques. In addition, with the support of WHO's GAP program, influenza vaccine production capacities have been established in a number of vulnerable low- and middle-income countries with a high population density, allowing the countries to be independent of vaccine supply from high-income countries. Overall, it is believed that the world is now well prepared for a possible H7N9 influenza pandemic.
Insights
Avian H7N9 influenza poses a pandemic threat. Research shows numerous vaccine candidates developed using advanced techniques, enhancing global preparedness for a potential H7N9 influenza pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Avian-origin H7N9 influenza viruses, first identified in humans in 2013, present a significant global health risk due to their high mortality rate (approx. 40%) and pandemic potential.
- H7N9 influenza is recognized as a leading candidate for causing the next major influenza pandemic, necessitating urgent vaccine development and preparedness strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and evaluation of H7N9 influenza vaccine candidates.
- To identify ongoing clinical trials for H7N9 vaccines and assess global pandemic preparedness.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of published data on H7N9 vaccine candidates using PubMed with the search term 'H7N9 influenza vaccine'.
- Cross-referencing with ClinicalTrials.gov to identify ongoing H7N9 vaccine clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Numerous promising H7N9 influenza vaccine candidates have been generated over the past four years utilizing both traditional and advanced gene engineering methods.
- Influenza vaccines are crucial for combating seasonal and pandemic influenza, with significant progress in H7N9 vaccine development.
Conclusions:
- The world is considered well-prepared for a potential H7N9 influenza pandemic due to advancements in vaccine technology and global manufacturing capacity.
- Establishment of vaccine production in low- and middle-income countries enhances self-sufficiency and global response capabilities for influenza pandemics.
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