Recombinant hemagglutinin protein vaccine: a new option in immunization against influenza

Abstract

Influenza continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Vaccination is the most effective strategy to prevent influenza complications. Traditional influenza vaccines rely on an egg-based production system that has several limitations like dependence on egg supply, long production time and contraindication in people with severe egg allergy. Alternative vaccine production systems are then necessary. The insect cell-baculovirus-based production technology has shown the ability to overcome these limitations. A recombinant trivalent hemagglutinin vaccine (RIV3 – Flublok®) produced using this system is available and licensed in the USA since 2013 for use in adults. This is the first vaccine to contain recombinant influenza virus proteins, with a hemagglutinin concentration that is three-times the one found in inactivated influenza vaccine. Different studies have shown that RIV3 is well tolerated, immunogenic and efficacious, thus proving it to be an additional option for immunization against influenza in adults.