Biological view of vaccination described by mathematical modellings: from rubella to dengue vaccines

Area of Science:

• Vaccinology
• Epidemiology
• Mathematical Biology

Background:

• The RA27/3 rubella vaccine, licensed in 1979, replaced the HPV77/DE5 strain due to waning immunity concerns.
• The first tetravalent dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia CYDTDV) was registered in 2015, representing a significant advancement in dengue prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the evolution of rubella vaccination strategies informed by updated biological knowledge.
• To draw parallels between rubella and dengue vaccine modeling, considering recent advancements in tetravalent dengue vaccine use.
• To discuss the security of current vaccination strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical vaccination data and mathematical modeling approaches for rubella.
• Comparative analysis of rubella vaccine development and current tetravalent dengue vaccine implementation.
• Exploration of how biological knowledge impacts vaccination strategy design.

Main Results:

• Rubella vaccination models have shifted from preventing congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) to treating rubella as a standard childhood infection, reflecting improved understanding.
• The development and deployment of the tetravalent dengue vaccine present new challenges and opportunities for modeling.

Conclusions:

• Updated biological knowledge significantly influences the design and effectiveness of vaccination strategies.
• Lessons learned from rubella vaccine modeling can inform the development and implementation of tetravalent dengue vaccine programs.
• Ongoing discussion regarding the safety and efficacy of vaccination strategies is crucial.