The virosomal adjuvanted influenza vaccine.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

The protection conferred by influenza vaccines varies for several reasons, for example the age or degree of immune depression of the recipient. All currently available seasonal influenza vaccines are safe and substantially effective in preventing influenza in healthy people. However, elderly people and patients with chronic diseases or immune system defects need a more effective vaccine to avoid serious risks from influenza and its complications. Research has been undertaken to improve the efficacy of vaccination. Recent research includes the use of new adjuvants or antigen-presenting strategies.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

The virosomal adjuvanted subunit influenza vaccine has been studied in groups for whom vaccination is recommended. We describe virosomal technology, including production and mode of action, as well as the available efficacy, immunogenicity and safety data, with the aim of understanding the benefits of this vaccine's use.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

A review of published data on efficacy, immunogenicity and safety from sponsor- and investigator- driven studies, focusing on recent publications.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

The vaccine was generally very immunogenic and safe in all investigated populations. Its ability to induce protective antibody titers has been shown to exceed that of conventional influenza vaccines in elderly people and individuals with little or no prior exposure to the viral strains.