Report on influenza viruses received and tested by the Melbourne WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research...

As part of its role in the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), the WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza in Melbourne received 12,180 human influenza-positive samples during 2024. Viruses were analysed for their antigenic, genetic, and antiviral susceptibility properties. Selected viruses were propagated in qualified cells or embryonated hens' eggs for potential use in seasonal influenza virus vaccines. During 2024, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) viruses predominated, accounting for 33% and 42%, respectively, of all viruses received, compared to 5% for influenza B/Victoria. Of note, one influenza A(H5N1) virus was also received in 2024. The majority of A(H1N1)pdm09 (98%), A(H3N2) (88%) and influenza B (100%) viruses analysed at the Centre were found to be antigenically and genetically similar to the respective WHO recommended vaccine strains for the Southern Hemisphere in 2024. Of 4,007 samples tested for susceptibility to the neuraminidase inhibitors oseltamivir and zanamivir, twelve A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses and one B/Victoria virus showed highly reduced inhibition against oseltamivir or zanamivir. Of 3,294 total samples sequenced for baloxavir susceptibility, 18 of the 1,825 A(H3N2) samples were identified with genetic evidence of reduced susceptibility to baloxavir marboxil in the PA gene.