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The need for novel influenza vaccines in low- and middle-income countries: A narrative review
Julia R Spinardi1, Karan B Thakkar2, Verna L Welch3
1Vaccine Medical and Scientific Affairs, Emerging Markets, Pfizer Inc., São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
Influenza viruses cause 3-5 million severe cases and 300,000-600,000 deaths worldwide. Most of the disease burden is in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) owing to factors such as high population density, infrastructure challenges, poor quality healthcare, lack of consistent recommendations, less prioritization of all high-risk groups, and prevalent use of trivalent influenza vaccines. Although influenza vaccines are effective in reducing the annual influenza disease burden, existing vaccines have several limitations. In this narrative review, we address the unmet needs of existing influenza vaccines in LMICs in Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and discuss the characteristics of novel vaccines in clinical development. We also describe features of a successful vaccination program that LMICs could emulate to improve their current vaccination coverage and reduce the public health burden of influenza.
Insights
Influenza poses a significant global health threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Novel vaccines and improved vaccination programs are crucial to reduce the substantial burden of influenza disease in these regions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Vaccinology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Influenza causes millions of severe cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths globally each year.
- Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a disproportionate burden due to various socioeconomic and healthcare factors.
- Existing influenza vaccines have limitations, especially in LMICs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the unmet needs of current influenza vaccines in LMICs across Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- To discuss novel influenza vaccines in clinical development.
- To outline features of successful vaccination programs for LMICs.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review of existing literature.
- It synthesizes information on influenza disease burden, vaccine limitations, and emerging vaccine technologies.
- It also analyzes successful vaccination program strategies.
Main Results:
- LMICs face unique challenges impacting influenza vaccine effectiveness and coverage.
- Several novel influenza vaccines with improved characteristics are in clinical development.
- Successful vaccination programs in some settings offer models for improving coverage in LMICs.
Conclusions:
- Addressing unmet needs in influenza vaccination is critical for LMICs.
- Novel vaccines and optimized vaccination programs hold promise for reducing the global influenza burden.
- Enhanced public health strategies are essential for improving influenza control in vulnerable populations.
