Vaccine[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Propagation and immunological characterization of three enterovirus D68 strains using serum-free HEK293A suspension cell culture.
Shen YS, Fang CY, Chan TT … +5 more , Wu SR, Horng JT, Chow YH, Liao CL, Liu CC
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42086005 · Publisher ↗
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is an emerging pathogen that typically causes respiratory illness but can also lead to acute flaccid myelitis, which has been reported in several outbreaks worldwide. As EV-D68 has been found to...
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is an emerging pathogen that typically causes respiratory illness but can also lead to acute flaccid myelitis, which has been reported in several outbreaks worldwide. As EV-D68 has been found to be difficult to infect and proliferate in the standard Vero cells, a viable manufacturing process for the development of inactivated EV-D68 vaccine is urgently needed. We performed cell line screening and found that the HEK293A is a suitable host for EV-D68 propagation. The EV-D68 TW2014 (B3) strain was used to develop the EV-D68 production using a serum-free HEK293A (sfHEK293A) suspension system. Two major EV-D68 particles, the empty and full viral particles, were separated by ultracentrifugation and were found to induce low and high neutralizing antibody responses, respectively, in animal studies. To facilitate the mass production of vaccine, a combination of size-exclusion and anion-exchange chromatography was developed to purify EV-D68 particles. High quality, pure EV-D68 particles could be obtained by this simple procedure for vaccine production. Additionally, we found that the EV-D68 MO (B1) and KY (A2) strains could also be propagated in this sfHEK293A cell system, but at a lower 33 °C condition. These three formalin-inactivated EV-D68s were shown to induce EV-D68-specific neutralizing responses and also neutralize a recently circulating strain, but failed to cross-neutralize enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) in sera assay. The combination of EV-D68 and EV-A71 in one vaccination induced the neutralizing responses against both viruses. Our results showed that EV-D68 particles produced from the sfHEK293A suspension culture could be used to prepare EV-D68 vaccine candidates. Purifying the full EV-D68 particles for vaccine production is recommended for inducing a high, specific immune response. Combination of EV-D68 and EV-A71 is beneficial for the development of bivalent enterovirus vaccine.
Can a DNA vaccine protect against Chagas disease? A systematic review of preclinical studies.
Khan IA, Dos Santos EC, Novaes RD … +2 more , Carvalho RPR, de Oliveira LL
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42085749 · Publisher ↗
Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major neglected tropical disease with limited treatment options. DNA-based vaccination has been explored as a preventive strategy, but its overall efficacy and trans...
Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major neglected tropical disease with limited treatment options. DNA-based vaccination has been explored as a preventive strategy, but its overall efficacy and translational value remain uncertain. Despite encouraging preclinical findings, the evidence on DNA-based vaccines against T. cruzi remains heterogeneous and has not been systematically integrated across outcomes. A comprehensive review is therefore needed to contextualize the current knowledge and define the translational relevance of this platform. To systematically review preclinical in vivo evidence on the efficacy of DNA-based vaccination against T. cruzi, focusing on parasitological, immunological, histopathological, and cardiac outcomes. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched without date restrictions. Eligible studies were controlled in vivo experiments evaluating DNA vaccines against T. cruzi in animal models. Two reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, risk-of-bias (SYRCLE) and certainty of evidence (GRADE) assessment independently. Thirty preclinical studies were included. Murine models predominated, especially BALB/c, C57BL/6, and C3H/He mice, although canine studies added translational relevance. Naked plasmid DNA, Salmonella-delivered constructs, and adjuvanted DNA vaccines were the most common platforms. The principal antigens belonged to the trans-sialidase family and amastigote surface proteins. Overall, vaccination was associated with reduced parasitemia, improved survival in several murine models, Th1 immune responses characterized by increased IFN-γ, IgG2a, and CD8+ T-cell activation, as well as attenuation of inflammatory, histopathological, and cardiac damage. In canine models, vaccination also reduced parasite burden and myocardial inflammation, although protection remained incomplete. Confidence in the evidence was limited by substantial heterogeneity in animal background, antigen selection, parasite strain, inoculation route, dosing regimens, and follow-up duration. Frequent unclear risk of bias and incomplete reporting prevented meta-analysis and constrain causal inference. DNA-based vaccination against T. cruzi can induce Th1 immunity and reduce parasitological and tissue injury outcomes, but protection is often partial and rarely sterilizing.
Cost-effectiveness of ongoing COVID-19 vaccination in the context of high population immunity: A structured review of international economic evidence.
Tuite AR, Forbes N, Salvadori MI … +1 more , Tunis M
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42085748 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: In the context of ongoing SARS-CoV-2 circulation and high population immunity, jurisdictions face decisions about which population groups should receive ongoing annual vaccination. Economic evaluations are in...
BACKGROUND: In the context of ongoing SARS-CoV-2 circulation and high population immunity, jurisdictions face decisions about which population groups should receive ongoing annual vaccination. Economic evaluations are increasingly central to these deliberations but the growing body of global cost-effectiveness evidence has not been synthesized. OBJECTIVE: To summarize cost-effectiveness evidence for COVID-19 vaccination from 2023 onwards, organized by population groups of policy relevance. METHODS: We conducted a structured literature search in December 2025 across MEDLINE, Embase, and EconLit, supplemented by grey literature searches of National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) websites. From 644 screened references, 21 studies met inclusion criteria: economic evaluations of COVID-19 vaccination from 2023 onwards reporting cost-effectiveness of annual vaccination compared to no additional vaccination in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) or disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Results were synthesized by population group. RESULTS: Annual COVID-19 vaccination was economically favourable for older adults (≥60-65 years) across all 18 contributing studies spanning 12 countries and using diverse analytic approaches. For individuals with underlying conditions or comorbidities, results were more variable, with cost-effectiveness depending on age, specific conditions, and vaccine price. Vaccination of healthy working-age adults (3 of 4 studies) and children (2 of 3 studies) was generally unfavourable at standard cost-effectiveness thresholds. Limited evidence was identified for healthcare workers and no economic evaluations from 2023 onwards were identified for pregnancy. The evidence base was geographically concentrated in high-income countries, with approximately half of included studies reporting industry funding. Sequential US economic evaluations demonstrated progressive declines in cost-effectiveness as disease burden decreased over time. CONCLUSIONS: The economic evidence supports a risk-stratified approach to COVID-19 vaccination, with the strongest economic value observed for older adults and individuals with comorbidities. Cost-effectiveness is dynamic, sensitive to disease burden, vaccine price, and population characteristics, and should be reassessed regularly as epidemiological conditions evolve.
Corrigendum to "Heterologous DNA prime-crude tachyzoite lysate antigen boost targeting MIC8 confers protection against acute and chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice" [Vaccine 80 (2026) 128554].
Peter AM, Ambu SP, Davamani FA … +2 more , Somanath SD, Chakravarthi S
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42070374 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Cost-effectiveness of human papillomavirus vaccination in Jordan: A modelling study.
Mousa AAB, Thneibat FM, Al-Hamdan Z … +5 more , Al-Hawarat MN, Maswadi N, Pecenka CJ, Al-Shboul RA, Bdour I
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42070373 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains a preventable but persistent public health challenge. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination offers an effective strategy to reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality, but there i...
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains a preventable but persistent public health challenge. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination offers an effective strategy to reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality, but there is limited evidence on its potential impact and cost-effectiveness in Jordan. METHODS: We modelled the lifetime costs and consequences of a single-dose HPV vaccination program (2026-2035) for girls aged 12 years in Jordan. The primary outcome measure was the cost (2023 USD) per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted, from a government perspective. The comparator was a scenario with no HPV vaccination and no change in existing cervical cancer screening services. We calculated vaccine program costs, and cervical cancer cases, deaths, DALYs and healthcare costs averted by three alternative HPV vaccine products (Cecolin®, Cervarix™ and Gardasil®). We ran deterministic and probabilistic uncertainty analyses and estimated the probability that the vaccine would be cost-effective at a threshold set at 0.7 times the national gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. RESULTS: A decade of vaccination in Jordan could prevent at least 2200 cervical cancer cases and 1200 deaths (a reduction of over 50%) over the lifetimes of the vaccinated girls. The program costs associated with introducing Cecolin® ($2.90 per dose) were $9.2 million, but this was offset by around $14.6 million in treatment cost savings (Cecolin® was cost-saving in 97% of the probabilistic runs). Cervarix™ ($10.25 per dose) was estimated to cost $16.2 million but had greater health benefits than Cecolin® (68% versus 55% impact). Compared to Cecolin® each additional DALY averted by Cervarix™ would cost $2025. Cervarix™ had a 100% probability of being cost-effective at a threshold of 0.7 times the national GDP per capita) when compared directly to Cecolin®. Gardasil® ($13.50 per dose) was dominated/removed because it generated equivalent or lower health benefits to the other products at higher cost. The results were robust to changes in key input parameters. CONCLUSION: A single dose of Cecolin® could prevent more than half of the expected lifetime cervical cancer cases and deaths in Jordan and is very likely to be cost saving. Cervarix™ may be more impactful than Cecolin® but this depends on cross-protection assumptions. Continued multi-sectoral engagement and donor collaboration will be essential to ensure sustainable integration into the national immunization programme.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination program for older Australians reduces health inequalities: a distributional cost-effectiveness analysis.
Paul KK, Torres M, Shih STF … +5 more , Gray RT, Wood JG, Nazareno AL, Jan S, Newall AT
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42070372 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract disease in individuals aged ≥75 years. Differences in disease burden and vaccine uptake by socio-economic status (SES) are impor...
INTRODUCTION: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract disease in individuals aged ≥75 years. Differences in disease burden and vaccine uptake by socio-economic status (SES) are important considerations but are not usually incorporated into traditional cost-effectiveness analyses. We conducted a distributional cost-effectiveness analysis (DCEA) to evaluate RSV vaccination programs for older Australians. METHODS: We utilised a static multi-cohort Markov model to simulate age- and SES-specific RSV disease progression in adults aged ≥75 years, comparing no vaccination with the two currently approved RSV vaccines in Australia (Arexvy and Abrysvo). Where available, we used age and SES stratified healthcare utilisation data for RSV as input in the model, with SES represented by the Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage (IRSD). Net health benefits were calculated considering the opportunity costs associated with the vaccination program. We transformed the health distribution from no vaccination and vaccination scenarios and then compared these using a social welfare function. RESULTS: We found that all IRSD subgroups benefited from vaccination. Disadvantaged subgroups received larger health benefits, despite relatively lower vaccination uptake, due to higher baseline probability of RSV-related hospitalisation and death. Under the base-case assumptions, including an assumed negotiated price of A$150 per vaccine dose and an opportunity cost threshold of A$50,000 per quality-adjusted life year for all IRSD subgroups, we found an increase in equity and an overall increase in net health benefit. The impact of vaccination on net health and on equity was sensitive to annual RSV incidence, probability of symptomatic RSV episode, vaccine efficacies against RSV hospitalisation, and vaccine price. CONCLUSION: RSV vaccination for Australians aged ≥75 years could improve overall population health and reduce existing health inequalities. However, the net health benefits were sensitive to the potential vaccine price to be negotiated by the government in Australia for older adults.
Does an off-label two-dose RotaTeq vaccine schedule translate into a higher incidence of rotavirus hospital admissions compared to the approved three-dose RotaTeq schedule? A Canadian immunization research network study.
Fortin É, Miron É, Grewal R … +10 more , Wilson SE, Janjua NZ, Quach C, Sadarangani M, Kiely M, Naveed Z, Naus M, MacDonald SE, Swayze S, Brousseau N
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42070371 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Rotavirus (RV) vaccination programs were implemented between 2011 and 2012 in Canada and have considerably reduced the burden of RV disease. In September 2018, the province of Quebec implemented a reduced-dos...
BACKGROUND: Rotavirus (RV) vaccination programs were implemented between 2011 and 2012 in Canada and have considerably reduced the burden of RV disease. In September 2018, the province of Quebec implemented a reduced-dose RotaTeq vaccination schedule (two doses). Other provinces, such as British Columbia and Ontario, continued to use the approved three-dose schedule for this product. Our aim was to determine whether using a reduced-dose RotaTeq schedule was associated with an increased burden of RV disease. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study spanned from September 2006 to March 2023. The main analysis focused on children aged 6-23 months in Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia. Data were retrieved from administrative databases using diagnosis-specific ICD-10 codes. A difference-in-differences approach using Poisson regression was used to compare admission rates for rotavirus-associated acute gastroenteritis (RV-AGE) and for any acute gastroenteritis (AGE) before and after the implementation of a reduced-dose RotaTeq vaccination schedule in Quebec. FINDINGS: A total of 3875 RV-AGE and 36,568 AGE hospital admissions were identified. Across the three provinces, the rates of admission for RV-AGE and AGE were 87% and 56% lower, respectively, after vaccine program introduction as compared to before. After the implementation of the reduced-dose RotaTeq vaccination schedule in Quebec, between September 2018 and August 2020, only 19 RV-AGE hospital admissions were identified among children between 6 and 23 months of age in the three provinces. In Quebec, the reduced schedule was not associated with a statistically significant increase in RV-AGE admissions (rate ratio = 2.32; 95%CI = 0.80-6.69), or for AGE admissions in general (rate ratio = 1.02; 95%CI = 0.91-1.14), compared to temporal trends in the other two provinces. INTERPRETATION: This study provides reassuring evidence regarding the use of a two-dose RotaTeq schedule in a high-income country with relatively high vaccination coverage and reaffirms the substantial impact of RV vaccination introduction at a population level.
Language and racial disparities in COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and lactation.
Ukah UV, Haapala JL, Benitez GV … +11 more , DeSilva MB, Vesco KK, Daida YG, Sidebottom A, Kharbanda EO, Ehresmann K, Seburg EM, Chumba L, Banigo DR, Cullens CJ, Palmsten K
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42068907 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: No published study to date has reported on the association between preferred language and COVID-19 vaccine uptake during pregnancy, and even less is known about COVID-19 vaccine disparities during lactation....
BACKGROUND: No published study to date has reported on the association between preferred language and COVID-19 vaccine uptake during pregnancy, and even less is known about COVID-19 vaccine disparities during lactation. OBJECTIVES: To assess COVID-19 vaccine uptake during pregnancy and lactation by language, English proficiency, and race/ethnicity. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using electronic health records (EHR) from four US healthcare systems. The study included patients receiving prenatal care who had a live birth between December 2020 September 2022 and no COVID-19 vaccinations before pregnancy (pregnancy analysis) or delivery (lactation analysis). Self-identified (i) preferred language, (ii) limited English proficiency, based on patient request for an interpreter, and (iii) race and ethnicity were identified from EHR. The primary outcome was receipt of the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy for the pregnancy analysis, and between delivery and human milk feeding discontinuation, up to 180 days after delivery, for the lactation analysis. Adjusted rate ratios (aRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for receipt of first COVID-19 vaccine dose during pregnancy or lactation were estimated separately. RESULTS: Among 10,332 individuals eligible for initial COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy, groups with lower uptake during pregnancy included Ethiopian languages (aRR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43-0.83) and Somali (aRR 0.39, 95% CI 0.28-0.54) versus English language, limited versus no limited English proficiency (aRR 0.66, 95% CI 0.58-0.76), and non-Hispanic Black versus White (aRR 0.56, 95% CI 0.51-0.62). Among 9271 individuals, groups with lower uptake during lactation included Ethiopian languages (aRR 0.48, 95% CI 0.30-0.77) and Somali (aRR 0.60, 95% CI 0.46-0.80) versus English language, and non-Hispanic Black versus White (aRR 0.77, 95% CI 0.70-0.86). Temporal trends showed lower vaccine uptake for non-English preferred language and non-Hispanic Black groups during pregnancy and lactation, especially during the earlier months of vaccine roll-out. CONCLUSIONS: There were language and racial/ethnic disparities in initial perinatal COVID-19 vaccination. The findings highlight the need to address language-related and other barriers during the rollout of new vaccines.
Neoantigen-based T cell vaccines design strategies, therapeutic barriers, and clinical advances.
Shi J, Wang J, Luo H … +7 more , Zhao Q, Yao Z, Wu G, Li Z, Wang H, Chen G, Wu D
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42068906 · Publisher ↗
Over the past several decades, immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative paradigm in oncology. Within this domain, vaccines targeting tumor-specific neoantigens represent one of the most advanced approaches, engineer...
Over the past several decades, immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative paradigm in oncology. Within this domain, vaccines targeting tumor-specific neoantigens represent one of the most advanced approaches, engineered to activate the host immune system and elicit potent, antigen-specific T-cell responses. By stimulating both CD8 cytotoxic and CD4 helper T cells, these vaccines enable highly selective tumor cell elimination while establishing durable immunological memory. Despite their promise, the rational development and clinical translation of neoantigen-based vaccines remain constrained by substantial challenges that limit their broad therapeutic impact. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the field, tracing the entire pipeline from the molecular origin and computational prediction of neoantigens to the design principles guiding vaccine formulation. It examines mechanisms of action across diverse platforms-including mRNA, peptide, and dendritic cell vaccines-and explores synergistic strategies that combine adjuvants or immune checkpoint blockade to enhance efficacy. In addition, we critically evaluate key barriers to success, such as immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments, T-cell dysfunction, and antigenic escape. Finally, we highlight recent clinical advances aimed at overcoming these barriers, thereby outlining a framework for optimizing neoantigen vaccine design to maximize their therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. Notably, encouraging progress has been reported in malignancies such as non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma, underscoring the translational promise of this strategy.
Tailoring the Australian vaccine barriers assessment tool (VBAT) for Aotearoa New Zealand: Using a local equity approach.
Turner N, Castelino L, Paynter J … +5 more , Willing E, Henseler J, Best E, Kaufman J, Danchin M
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42066580 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: There is need for international tools to measure and monitor childhood immunisation programme uptake, validated specifically for local country context. Childhood vaccine coverage has declined in Aotearoa New...
BACKGROUND: There is need for international tools to measure and monitor childhood immunisation programme uptake, validated specifically for local country context. Childhood vaccine coverage has declined in Aotearoa New Zealand (ANZ) since 2016, especially for Māori and Pacific Peoples. OBJECTIVES: To adapt the Australian Vaccine Barriers Assessment Tool (VBAT) for ANZ context, to support improvement of vaccination coverage, particularly for Māori and Pacific Peoples children. METHODS: The NZ VBAT was developed and validated in three stages: (1) Literature review and cognitive theory, refined through cognitive testing in ANZ. (2) Surveys assessing reliability of potential items and selection of items via expert consensus. (3) Surveys assessing predictive validity of future immunisation, with responses linked to vaccination records. Confirmatory Composite Analysis (CCA) assessed fit of the final preferred models. RESULTS: Stage 1 identified 80 items, refined to 45 through cognitive testing. In stage 2, 467 surveys assessed item reliability. In stage 3, 314 out of 492 (64%) carers/parents (82% Māori and Pacific Peoples) completed the final 35 item survey, with 176 responses linked to immunisation records. Logistic regression showed strong associations between access and acceptance barriers and vaccine uptake. The final 6-item short survey had five domains encompassing safety, access, effectiveness, intention and influence; whilst the 14 -item long survey incorporated two additional domains: social responsibility and relationship with provider. Both surveys outperformed the US Parent Attitudes Childhood Vaccines (PACV) Survey, explaining 13% and 14% of uptake variation compared to PACV's 10%. CONCLUSION: The NZ Vaccine Barriers Assessment tools (NZ VBAT) is a culturally appropriate tool to identify the social and behavioural drivers of suboptimal vaccination in children <5 years in NZ. It will support development of targeted interventions to achieve optimal immunisation coverage and reduce equity gaps.
Recombinant AcHERV-baculovirus vaccine elicits robust immune responses against human norovirus.
Yoon D, Lee H, Lee Y … +5 more , Chun J, Hong SY, Oh JW, Kim YB, Lee HJ
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42066579 · Publisher ↗
Human norovirus (HuNoV) is a leading global cause of acute viral gastroenteritis, placing a particularly high burden on pediatric and elderly populations. Despite significant progress in HuNoV vaccine development, includ...
Human norovirus (HuNoV) is a leading global cause of acute viral gastroenteritis, placing a particularly high burden on pediatric and elderly populations. Despite significant progress in HuNoV vaccine development, including advanced clinical trials of virus-like particle (VLP)-based candidates, no vaccine has received regulatory approval to date. In this study, we developed a recombinant baculovirus-based vaccine, AcHERV-HuNoV, designed to express the human norovirus (HuNoV) VP1 protein. This vaccine utilizes the AcHERV platform, which consists of Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) with the human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) envelope protein to enhance delivery efficiency. The AcHERV-HuNoV vaccine incorporates HERV-W-derived Syncytin-1 on the baculovirus envelope and the VP1 gene from either the GII.4 or GII.17 genotype to represent prevalent strains in Korea. This system enhances gene delivery to mammalian cells while preventing in vivo replication. Norovirus VLPs were produced and purified from insect cells to serve as control vaccines and comparative antigens. Immunogenicity was evaluated in BALB/c mice following intramuscular and intranasal administration of AcHERV-HuNoV. The vaccine induced robust immune responses, with serum IgG geometric mean titers (GMTs) reaching 14,132 (95% CI: 9080-21,979) and IgA levels of 262 (95% CI: 70-982) specific for GII.4 after final immunization, as well as potent surrogate neutralizing activity determined by the porcine gastric mucin (PGM)-blocking assay. Furthermore, it induced robust cellular immunity characterized by increased production of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines. These results demonstrate the promising potential of AcHERV-HuNoV as a genetic vaccine candidate capable of inducing both humoral and cellular immune responses against HuNoV infection.
Comparison of Tdap vaccine immunogenicity between pregnant and non-pregnant active duty service members.
Khodr ZG, Hall C, Bukowinski AT … +5 more , Gumbs GR, Lee RU, Mimica Porras FJ, Pineda G, Conlin AMS
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42066578 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination in pregnancy is recommended to provide passive immunity to newborns. Few studies have assessed how pregnancy modifies vaccinated individuals' im...
BACKGROUND: Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination in pregnancy is recommended to provide passive immunity to newborns. Few studies have assessed how pregnancy modifies vaccinated individuals' immune response to Tdap vaccination, with most focused on short-term responses (i.e., within 1 month). Here, we assessed anti-pertussis toxin (PT) immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels 9-15 months following Tdap vaccination in pregnant and non-pregnant active duty service members (ADSMs). METHODS: This observational cohort study included 240 ADSMs pregnant at Tdap vaccination, 1:1 matched with 240 non-pregnant ADSMs on age, time between vaccine and serum collection, and receipt of other same-day vaccines (2011-2016). Serum samples (0-6 weeks before and 9-15 months after vaccination) were obtained from the Department of Defense Serum Repository. Anti-PT IgG levels were assessed using geometric mean concentrations (GMCs), and associations between pregnancy status at vaccination and anti-PT IgG levels were estimated through multivariable linear regression models. RESULTS: Pregnant vs. non-pregnant ADSMs had higher anti-PT IgG GMCs in both pre- (9.01 vs. 5.81, P < .01) and post-vaccine (27.71 vs. 22.33, P = .02) serums. Post-vaccine multivariable models adjusting for pre-vaccine levels were not significantly different between pregnant vs. non-pregnant ADSMs (b = -0.05, P = .42). Associations were modified by time since prior Tdap booster, and statistically different for pregnant individuals who received a booster <2 years prior (b = -0.22, P = .02). CONCLUSION: Tdap vaccination in pregnancy yielded a similar long-term anti-PT IgG response to vaccination outside of pregnancy; findings substantiate the current recommended vaccine schedule.
Robust cross-neutralizing antibody responses but variable cellular immunity following either Comirnaty and Spikevax JN.1-adapted mRNA vaccination in the elderly.
Tang YS, Chen C, Lv H … +7 more , Sun Y, Tan CW, Yiu K, Ling KC, Chan KKP, Mok CKP, Hui DS
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42060980 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 continues to challenge vaccine effectiveness, particularly in elderly individuals at higher risk of severe disease. The World Health Organization has recommended the use of a...
BACKGROUND: The rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 continues to challenge vaccine effectiveness, particularly in elderly individuals at higher risk of severe disease. The World Health Organization has recommended the use of a monovalent JN.1 lineage vaccine antigen for updated COVID-19 vaccines since April 2024. It remains crucial to determine whether these JN.1-adapted vaccines induce cross-protective immunity against emerging variants, including KP.2, KP.3, XEC, XDV, LP.8.1, and NB.1.8.1. METHODS: A cohort of 62 participants (median age 63.5 years; 41 Comirnaty and 21 Spikevax recipients) was studied before and one month after JN.1 mRNA vaccination. Neutralizing antibody titres were assessed by surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) or plaque-reduction neutralization test (PRNT). T cell responses were analyzed by intracellular cytokine staining, and S2-specific antibody levels were quantified by ELISA. RESULTS: Both JN.1 vaccines markedly enhanced neutralizing antibodies against wild-type, JN.1, and multiple sublineages. S2-targeting antibodies also increased significantly, indicating recognition of conserved spike regions. Approximately half of the participants showed induction of IFNγCD8 or CD4 T cells. CONCLUSIONS: The monovalent JN.1 mRNA vaccines elicit broad cross-neutralizing and S2-directed humoral immunity in the elderly, though cellular responses remain heterogeneous. Continued monitoring and inclusion of conserved T cell epitopes in next-generation vaccine designs are warranted to sustain protection against future variants.
Immunogenicity and safety of Sabin-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine in infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Hussain M, Hassan M, Athar M … +4 more , Khan S, Azam MT, Rathi D, Nawaz J
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42060979 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Poliomyelitis remains a threat to children under five despite global vaccination efforts. The Sabin-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine (sIPV) has emerged as a safer alternative to conventional Salk-strain...
BACKGROUND: Poliomyelitis remains a threat to children under five despite global vaccination efforts. The Sabin-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine (sIPV) has emerged as a safer alternative to conventional Salk-strain IPV (cIPV) due to lower biosafety requirements. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the immunogenicity and safety of sIPV compared with cIPV in healthy infants completing the primary IPV series. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched for RCTs. Outcomes included seroconversion rates, seroprotection rates, geometric mean titers (GMTs), and adverse events. Data were pooled using random-effects models, and evidence certainty was assessed using RoB 2.0 and GRADE. RESULTS: Seven RCTs with 4646 infants were included. Seroconversion rates were comparable: PV1 100% (RR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00-1.01), PV2 102% (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.98-1.07), PV3 100% (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.99-1.01). GMTs were higher for sIPV after PV1 (MD 1.50, 95% CI 0.98-2.02) and PV2 (MD 0.52, 95% CI 0.06-0.98). Local adverse events were similar (OR 1.27, 95% CI 0.95-1.71), while systemic adverse events were higher with cIPV (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.15-1.60). Fever (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.20-1.87) and allergic reactions (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.02-4.69) were slightly more frequent with sIPV. CONCLUSIONS: sIPV provides immunogenicity comparable to cIPV with an acceptable safety profile in infants. Its lower biosafety requirements support its use in global polio eradication programs.
Vaccination strategies for responding to public health emergencies of infectious diseases.
Wang Y, Cui F, Lu QB
Vaccine · 2026 Jun · PMID 42054722 · Publisher ↗
The outbreak of infectious diseases remains a serious public health problem in today's society,and emergency vaccination stands as a pivotal public health intervention for responding to the tricky situation and reducing...
The outbreak of infectious diseases remains a serious public health problem in today's society,and emergency vaccination stands as a pivotal public health intervention for responding to the tricky situation and reducing the impact of public health emergencies. This review systematically examines vaccine emergency vaccination policies and expert recommendations from both domestic and international sources, revealing a current lack of standardized reference criteria and evidence-based implementation guidelines regarding optimal timing and specific intervention measures. It is imperative to develop a scientific evaluation system for emergency vaccination initiation and establish global standardization frameworks. In order to successfully curb the spread of infectious diseases, a high coverage rate of emergency vaccination is a guarantee. Increasing vaccine accessibility through cross-departmental collaboration and flexible allocation of existing resources, while scientifically and reasonably allocating the sequence, are both important steps in smoothly implementing emergency vaccination. Reasonable evaluation of the efficacy of established vaccines can provide a reference for their subsequent application. This review also focuses on the numerous challenges faced by vaccines against emerging infectious diseases since their development. The rapid mutation of pathogens makes the task, which already lacks sufficient research and development time, even more urgent. Emergency Use Authorization and rapid review procedures have emerged as a result. Many countries have established regulations governing relevant procedures and post-implementation management of emergency vaccination, which specify conditions, processes, timelines, and oversight requirements. Vaccine hesitancy poses particular challenges for the rollout of newly developed vaccines. Community participation, enhancing public confidence, and solution to "infodemic" provide new solutions to the previous problem. The continuous innovation of vaccine technology and increasingly sophisticated monitoring methods are expected to further improve vaccine safety. This review aims to provide both theoretical foundations and inspired experience for optimizing global emergency vaccination, thereby enabling more efficient and effective public health responses to future epidemics.
An evaluation of a multifaceted training program to build National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) capacity for making evidence-based immunization policy.
Fukunaga R, Torre L, Shefer AM … +4 more , Cavallaro KF, Tencza C, Kagina BM, Hadler SC
Vaccine · 2026 May · PMID 42048738 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Since January 2022, regional National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) workshops have been held for more than 50 countries to strengthen participants' understanding of NITAG functions, basic vacc...
BACKGROUND: Since January 2022, regional National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) workshops have been held for more than 50 countries to strengthen participants' understanding of NITAG functions, basic vaccinology, and the ability to make evidence-based decisions on vaccines. A midterm evaluation was conducted in select countries to assess impact and guide future workshop enhancements, ensuring content is tailored to country-specific needs and practical application of NITAG functions. METHODS: An online questionnaire was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024, targeting NITAGs from 12 workshops held 6-24 months earlier in the African (AFR) and Eastern Mediterranean (EMR) Regions. Each country submitted one consolidated response covering five sections: general information, basic NITAG functions, the evidence-to-recommendation (EtR) process, vaccinology, and training agenda. RESULTS: Of 28 NITAGs trained between February 2022 and August 2023, 21 (75%; 13/15 AFR, 8/13 EMR) participated in the evaluation survey. Most NITAGs (76%) participated in multi-country workshops, with median 10 individuals (range 2-22) per country. Following the workshops, 67% of NITAGs developed or revised key documents (e.g., standard operating procedures) and 50% updated other policies (e.g., conflict of interest). Among 19 NITAGs that attended the full EtR training, 11 completed the vaccine-specific EtR process started during the workshop (6 also applied the EtR process to additional vaccines). Among 15 NITAGs that attended vaccinology sessions, all reported applying the knowledge in their work. Respondents requested more time for evidence analysis and synthesis during future trainings. CONCLUSIONS: Post training evaluation of NITAG capacity-building workshops showed positive and sustained impact for operations, vaccinology, and the application of the EtR process for a vaccine policy question. Our findings suggest future workshops may be enhanced by requiring pre-training eLearning modules and strengthening indicators to monitor training quality and outcomes. Such improvements may help to reinforce NITAG capacity for evidence-informed immunization policy-making.
Between racism and rumors: understanding vaccine mistrust among older racially diverse adults in Canada.
Beogo I, Muray M, Kibret TC … +2 more , Xu Y, Cénat JM
Vaccine · 2026 May · PMID 42048737 · Publisher ↗
COVID-19 vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing infection, hospitalization, and mortality. However, although the pandemic disproportionately affected racialized and Indigenous older adults, little is known about th...
COVID-19 vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing infection, hospitalization, and mortality. However, although the pandemic disproportionately affected racialized and Indigenous older adults, little is known about their attitudes and trust toward vaccines. This cross-sectional study examined COVID-19 vaccine mistrust and its associations with health literacy, conspiracy beliefs, and racial discrimination among racially diverse older Canadians. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among racially diverse adults aged 55 years and older across Canada using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing. COVID-19 vaccine mistrust was assessed as the dependent variable, while health literacy, conspiracy beliefs, racial discrimination, and sociodemographic characteristics were examined as independent variables. t-tests, ANOVA, and multivariable regression analyses were performed to examine associations between COVID-19 vaccine mistrust and the independent variables. The sample comprised 581 participants (11.5% Arab, 15.8% Asian, 16.2% Black, 9.0% Indigenous, 8.1% Mixed, 3.6% Other, and 35.8% White). COVID-19 vaccine mistrust varied significantly by race, with Black, Indigenous, Arab, and Asian participants reporting higher mistrust than White counterparts, F(6,574) = 7.14, p < 0.001. COVID-19 vaccine mistrust was greater among adults aged 55-64 (M = 10.5, 95%CI: 10.1-10.9) compared to those aged 65 and more (M = 8.7, 95%CI: 8.3-9.1). Regression analyses showed higher COVID-19 vaccine mistrust among Asian (β = 1.37, p < 0.001) and Black (β = 1.07, p = 0.003) participants. It was associated with lower vaccine confidence (β = -0.39, p < 0.001), and stronger conspiracy beliefs (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). This study reveals persistent racial and age disparities in COVID-19 vaccine mistrust among older Canadians. Beyond misinformation, mistrust reflects historical inequities and exclusion. Culturally grounded communication, improved health and media literacy, and trust-centered public health strategies are essential to strengthen vaccine confidence and promote equity in Canada's diverse aging population.
Improving primary care vaccination rates in underserved and medically high-risk populations: A rapid review of strategies used in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Fisher G, Wright B, Vickery T … +7 more , Charania NA, Spanos S, Pagano L, Churruca K, Ellis LA, Forrester B, Braithwaite J
Vaccine · 2026 May · PMID 42044614 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Despite excellent evidence for the effectiveness of vaccines and their inclusion within multiple clinical guidelines, vaccination coverage remains sub-optimal and inequitable in countries around the world, in...
BACKGROUND: Despite excellent evidence for the effectiveness of vaccines and their inclusion within multiple clinical guidelines, vaccination coverage remains sub-optimal and inequitable in countries around the world, including in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Interventions in primary care, and involving primary care providers, can be especially helpful to improve vaccination coverage. METHODS: We conducted a rapid review of research published between 2015 and 2024 that described either interventions, or barriers and enablers, to improving vaccination coverage for medically high-risk and underserved populations. Studies needed to be conducted in primary care in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand. First, thematic analysis was used to describe barriers and enablers. Then, the content and outcomes of the included interventions were synthesised. Finally, barriers and enablers were mapped against the intervention strategies, to identify gaps between these factors. RESULTS: Of the 42 included articles, 37 identified barriers and enablers, 11 described an intervention to improve vaccination coverage, and six did both. Barriers and enablers were identified at the consumer, practitioner and practice, and healthcare system level. Consumer-level factors included mistrust and hesitancy (barriers), and high perceived benefits of vaccination (enabler). Practice-level factors included competing demands (barrier), and positive attitudes towards population health interventions (enablers). Healthcare system-level factors included a lack of culturally informed services and issues with digital health systems (barriers), and policy-level supports for the development of co-designed, culturally informed, and equitable vaccination care pathways (enablers). These multi-level factors were rarely comprehensively addressed in interventions aiming to improve coverage. Instead, effective interventions tended to be narrower in scope, and included personalised vaccination calendars, SMS-reminder programs, and structured health assessments. CONCLUSIONS: The modest, but positive impacts of successful interventions may be improved using multi-level interventions that are tailored to target contexts and populations, which should be the focus of future work.
Prevalence of group B Streptococcus colonization in pregnant women and serotype specific immunity among mother-newborns dyads in Ghana and Zimbabwe.
Adjei IA, Mupambireyi Z, White SA … +15 more , Matsikire E, Manu A, Dhar N, Iddrisu L, Mathai E, Newton S, Cuevas L, Agyei O, Carey A, Enuameh YA, Opoku-Mensah J, Mathai M, Cowan F, Asante KP, Kwatra G
Vaccine · 2026 May · PMID 42044613 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Rectovaginal colonization with Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus; GBS) during pregnancy is a major risk factor for neonatal invasive GBS disease and adverse birth outcomes. We investigated the p...
BACKGROUND: Rectovaginal colonization with Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus; GBS) during pregnancy is a major risk factor for neonatal invasive GBS disease and adverse birth outcomes. We investigated the prevalence of maternal GBS colonization, serotype-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) immunity in mother-newborn dyads, and GBS associated stillbirths in Ghana and Zimbabwe. METHODS: A prospective cohort of 1238 pregnant women and their infants was enrolled (2018-2020). Recto-vaginal swabs collected at ≥36 weeks gestation or prior to delivery and chest aspirates from stillbirths were cultured for GBS. Isolates were serotyped using latex agglutination. Maternal and cord blood samples were analysed for GBS serotype-specific IgG using a multiplex bead-based immunoassay. RESULTS: The prevalence of recto-vaginal GBS colonization was 15.6% (68/437) in Ghana and 15.2% (50/329) in Zimbabwe. GBS was detected in 33.3% (3/9) of stillbirths. Dominant colonizing serotypes were Ia (25%), III (32%), and V (27%). Maternal IgG concentrations were significantly higher in Ghana than in Zimbabwe for serotypes Ib (0.11 vs 0.02 μg/mL; p = 0.0001), II (0.24 vs 0.06 μg/mL; p = 0.0001), and IV (0.03 vs 0.006 μg/mL; p < 0.0001). Transplacental IgG transfer ratios ranged from 0.81 to 1.08; highest for serotype II and lowest for Ia. Newborns with IgG above the serological thresholds for risk reduction for serotype Ia and III were 25.6% (Ia) and 38.4% (III) in Ghana; and 34.1% (Ia) and 26.8% (III) in Zimbabwe. CONCLUSIONS: The predominant GBS serotypes distribution in Ghana and Zimbabwe aligns with global epidemiological patterns. Despite evidence of natural maternal IgG immunity and efficient transplacental transfer, most newborns lacked protective antibody levels against GBS. A maternal GBS vaccine targeting dominant serotypes may reduce the risk of GBS neonatal invasive disease and GBS-associated stillbirths.
Association a school-based educational program and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination uptake in France: A pilot observational study.
Hermet L, Soupey S, Descamps A … +2 more , Coraci P, Touboul-Lundgren P
Vaccine · 2026 May · PMID 42044612 · Publisher ↗
CONTEXT: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage remains insufficient in France, despite national recommendations and the implementation, from 2023 onward, of a school-based vaccination campaign targeting student...
CONTEXT: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage remains insufficient in France, despite national recommendations and the implementation, from 2023 onward, of a school-based vaccination campaign targeting students aged 11-13 years. Parental vaccine hesitancy, often linked to insufficient information and understanding, represents a major barrier to vaccine uptake. This study aimed to assess the association between a school-based educational intervention and parental acceptance and HPV vaccination uptake within the national campaign. METHODS: We conducted a comparative observational study based on aggregated data from the national school-based HPV vaccination campaign in the Alpes-Maritimes area in southeastern France over two consecutive academic years (2023-2024 and 2024-2025). Parental acceptance rates and vaccination uptake were compared between a pilot middle school implementing the HPV-specific e-Bug educational program, other middle schools in the area, and a subgroup of schools with comparable social characteristics. RESULTS: Parental acceptance and HPV vaccination uptake were consistently higher in the e-Bug pilot school than in comparable schools across both academic years. Absolute differences in parental acceptance ranged from +24.4 to +26.2 percentage points, while differences in first-session vaccination uptake ranged from +20.3 to +24.9 percentage points, with odds ratios between 4.4 and 11.9 (p < 0.001).While acceptance and vaccination rates declined at the departmental level during the second year, rates observed in the pilot school were maintained or increased. CONCLUSION: A structured school-based educational intervention implemented upstream of vaccination campaigns may support parental acceptance and improve HPV vaccination uptake. Further large-scale evaluations are warranted to assess the role of health education within vaccination strategies.
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