[STIKO Recommendation: MF59-Adjuvanted Influenza Vaccine for Individuals ≥ 60 Years of Age]

In October 2024, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) adjusted its recommendation on seasonal influenza vaccination for people aged 60 and over. Based on new study data, the MF59-adjuvanted influenza vaccine is now recommended as equivalent to the high-dose vaccine: The MF59-adjuvanted vaccine was shown to be superior in terms of effectiveness compared to non-adjuvanted standard vaccines in older adults. The immune response to the adjuvanted vaccine was broader and stronger than to the standard vaccine. The MF59-adjuvanted vaccine had a similar safety profile to the high-dose vaccine, both showing slightly increased local and systemic reactogenicity compared to the standard vaccine. STIKO believes that recommending both vaccines could increase acceptance and willingness to be vaccinated in the target population.