Several articles in the New England Journal of Medicine concerning Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Virus (”Swine Flu”) are offered free of charge to all. One of those articles indicates that early results on testing show that one dose of the vaccine may be sufficient for most groups. The NEJM calls the preliminary studies “reassuring.”
In one study, supported by drug-makers and done in Australia and the U.K., researchers used a variety of dosages and schedules. The study group comprised about 300 healthy adults. Efficacy of the vaccine was evaluated the immunogenicity three weeks after administration. (One vaccine, derived from viruses grown in cell culture and not hens’ eggs, contained adjuvant, which is not expected to be licensed for use in the U.S. this year.)
The immune response to a single 15-µg dose of vaccine not containing adjuvant was rated as “robust” by researchers. Both vaccines showed good immunogenicity. The journal’s editorialist says the data suggest that the single 15-µg dose “should be immunogenic” in the groups prioritized for vaccination; however, younger children will probably still require two shots. Side effects included tenderness at the injection site and pain.
Recall that in a recent article in my family lawyer blog, I noted that research is shows children and young adults are more susceptible to this flu than seniors. Frequent hand-washing and use of alcohol hand-cleaners is urged.
Regarding safety: An editorial in the NEJM observed that “[i]t is reassuring that the manufacturing process for these vaccines is identical to that used for seasonal vaccines, which have a strong record of safety.”
You may read the following helpful information about swine flu here:
- NEJM article on single-dose vaccine (Free)
- NEJM editorial (Free)
- NEJM article on adjuvanted vaccine (Free)
- NEJM/Journal Watch H1N1 Influenza Center (Free)
- FDA news release (Free)
H1N1 Update September 16, 2009: The FDA approved four vaccines against 2009 H1N1 influenza on Tuesday, according to an agency news release. Several studies have showed that most healthy adults had a strong immune response after one dose. An optimum dosing schedule for children has not yet been determined.
National distribution of the initial lots is expected within 4 weeks.
Comments