INTERCHANGEABILITY OF VIRAL VACCINES FOR IMMUNIZATION

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Vaccinology
• Public Health

Background:

• The interchangeability of vaccines is a global concern, particularly for hepatitis A, B, and influenza vaccines.
• Current definitions of interchangeable drugs lack clear criteria for immunobiologicals compared to chemical drugs.
• International guidelines define vaccine interchangeability as switching between manufacturers during a vaccination series.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize scientific literature and regulatory documents on vaccine interchangeability.
• To clarify the concept of interchangeability for vaccines, especially in the context of national immunization programs.
• To highlight the importance of consistent administration schedules and dosages for interchangeable vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of domestic and international scientific literature.
• Analysis of World Health Organization (WHO) materials and regulatory documents.
• Synthesis of data on vaccine efficacy, safety, and interchangeability.

Main Results:

• Vaccines are considered interchangeable if they demonstrate comparable efficacy and safety profiles.
• Successful interchangeability relies on adherence to recommended administration schedules and manufacturer-specified dosages.
• Many countries have established recommendations for vaccine replacement, but Russia lacks specific regulations.

Conclusions:

• Vaccine interchangeability is crucial for maintaining vaccination continuity, especially when procuring vaccines for national schedules.
• The concept should encompass the ability to switch vaccine brands within a single immunization course.
• Further development of regulations and guidelines for vaccine interchangeability in Russia is warranted.