Journal Description
Vaccines
Vaccines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The American Society for Virology (ASV) is affiliated with Vaccines and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Immunology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Pharmacology (medical))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
7.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
7.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Vaccine Effectiveness against GP-Attended Symptomatic COVID-19 and Hybrid Immunity among Adults in Hungary during the 2022–2023 Respiratory Season Dominated by Different SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Subvariants
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050496 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
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Hungary provides the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in a setting where naturally acquired immunity and hybrid immunity are likely to play a greater role due to suboptimal vaccination coverage. Methods: A test-negative study was conducted during the 2022–2023 respiratory
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Hungary provides the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in a setting where naturally acquired immunity and hybrid immunity are likely to play a greater role due to suboptimal vaccination coverage. Methods: A test-negative study was conducted during the 2022–2023 respiratory season at the primary care level to determine the effectiveness of at least one COVID-19 booster dose in preventing medically attended symptomatic RT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults. Unvaccinated patients were used as a reference group. Results: A total of 247 cases and 1073 controls were included in the analysis. CVE was 56.8% (95% CI: 11.9–78.8%) in the population aged 60 years and older and 2.3% (95% CI: −50.0–36.3%) in the younger adults against COVID-19 caused by Omicron subvariants, mainly BA.5, BQ.1, and XBB.1. Self-reported COVID-19 in the 60–365 days prior to the current illness did not confer protection against reinfection without vaccination, but together with booster vaccination, it reduced the risk of COVID-19 by 63.0% (95% CI: −28.0–89.3%) and 87.6% (95% CI: 26.4–97.9%) among the 18–59 and 60+ age groups, respectively. Conclusions: CVE against COVID-19 was moderately high in the 60+ age groups. Because of the benefit of hybrid immunity, persons with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection should still be considered for vaccination campaigns.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Sociodemographic Trends and Correlation between Parental Hesitancy towards Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccines and Routine Childhood Immunizations in the United States: 2021–2022 National Immunization Survey—Child COVID Module
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Olufunto A. Olusanya, Nina B. Masters, Fan Zhang, David E. Sugerman, Rosalind J. Carter, Debora Weiss and James A. Singleton
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050495 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
Multiple factors may influence parental vaccine hesitancy towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and routine childhood immunizations (RCIs). Using the United States National Immunization Survey—Child COVID Module data collected from parents/guardians of children aged 5–11 years, this cross-sectional study (1) identified the trends and prevalence
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Multiple factors may influence parental vaccine hesitancy towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and routine childhood immunizations (RCIs). Using the United States National Immunization Survey—Child COVID Module data collected from parents/guardians of children aged 5–11 years, this cross-sectional study (1) identified the trends and prevalence estimates of parental hesitancy towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and RCIs, (2) examined the relationship between hesitancy towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and RCIs, and (3) assessed trends in parental hesitancy towards RCIs by sociodemographic characteristics and behavioral and social drivers of COVID-19 vaccination. From November 2021 to July 2022, 54,329 parents or guardians were interviewed. During this 9-month period, the proportion of parents hesitant about pediatric COVID-19 vaccines increased by 15.8 percentage points (24.8% to 40.6%). Additionally, the proportion of parents who reported RCIs hesitancy increased by 4.7 percentage points from November 2021 to May 2022 but returned to baseline by July 2022. Over nine months, parents’ concerns about pediatric COVID-19 infections declined; however, parents were increasingly worried about pediatric COVID-19 vaccine safety and overall importance. Furthermore, pediatric COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was more prevalent among parents of children who were White (43.2%) versus Black (29.3%) or Hispanic (26.9%) and those residing in rural (51.3%) compared to urban (28.9%) areas. In contrast, RCIs hesitancy was higher among parents of children who were Black (32.0%) versus Hispanic (24.5%) or White (23.6%). Pediatric COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was 2–6 times as prevalent among parents who were RCIs hesitant compared to those who were RCIs non-hesitant. This positive correlation between parental hesitancy towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and RCIs was observed for all demographic and psychosocial factors for unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios. Parent–provider interactions should increase vaccine confidence, shape social norms, and facilitate behavior change to promote pediatric vaccination rates.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequality in Immunization 2024)
Open AccessSystematic Review
Serological Correlates of Protection Induced by COVID-19 Vaccination in the Working Age Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by
Alborz Rahmani, Alfredo Montecucco, Luca Priano, Lucia Mandolini, Guglielmo Dini and Paolo Durando
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050494 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines represent effective public health measures in contrasting the pandemic worldwide. However, protection at the individual-level, which is of crucial importance from an occupational health perspective, is commonly assessed by a serological correlate of protection (CoP) for SARS-CoV-2, which has not yet
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COVID-19 vaccines represent effective public health measures in contrasting the pandemic worldwide. However, protection at the individual-level, which is of crucial importance from an occupational health perspective, is commonly assessed by a serological correlate of protection (CoP) for SARS-CoV-2, which has not yet been determined. The emergence of variants of concern (VOCs) that have shown high rates of breakthrough infections has further complicated the understanding of immune protection against infection. To define a potential serological correlate of protection induced by the COVID-19 vaccination, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to summarize the evidence concerning the binding antibody concentration corresponding to a protective effect. Eighteen and four studies were included in the qualitative and quantitative analyses, respectively. The protection against infection was shown for anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) titers ranging from 154 to 168.2 binding antibody units (BAU)/mL during the pre-Omicron period, while ranging from 1235 to 3035 BAU/mL in the Omicron period. Pooling the results from the studies concerning anti-RBD and anti-Spike antibody titer, we found a mean of 1341.5 BAU/mL and 1400.1 BAU/mL, respectively. These findings suggest that although a fixed serological threshold corresponding to protection against different SARS-CoV-2 variants is not yet definable, higher binding antibody concentrations are associated with increased protective effects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19: Safety, Immunogenicity and Effectiveness of Available Vaccines)
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Open AccessArticle
The Equal Neutralizing Effectiveness of BNT162b2, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, and Sputnik V Vaccines in the Palestinian Population
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Alexia Damour, Muriel Faure, Nicolas Landrein, Jessica Ragues, Narda Ardah, Haneen Dhaidel, Marie-Edith Lafon, Harald Wodrich and Walid Basha
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050493 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, different viral vector-based and mRNA vaccines directed against the SARS-CoV-2 “S” spike glycoprotein have been developed and have shown a good profile in terms of safety and efficacy. Nevertheless, an unbiased comparison of vaccination efficiency, including
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Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, different viral vector-based and mRNA vaccines directed against the SARS-CoV-2 “S” spike glycoprotein have been developed and have shown a good profile in terms of safety and efficacy. Nevertheless, an unbiased comparison of vaccination efficiency, including post-vaccination neutralizing activity, between the different vaccines remains largely unavailable. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of one mRNA (BNT162b2) and two non-replicating adenoviral vector vaccines (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and Sputnik V) in a cohort of 1120 vaccinated Palestinian individuals who received vaccines on an availability basis and which displayed a unique diversity of genetic characteristics. We assessed the level of anti-S antibodies and further determined the antibody neutralizing activity in 261 of those individuals vaccinated with BNT162b2a (121), ChAdOx1 (72) or Sputnik V (68). Our results showed no significant difference in the distribution of serum-neutralizing activity or S-antibody serum levels for the three groups of vaccines, proving equivalence in efficacy for the three vaccines under real-life conditions. In addition, none of the eight demographic parameters tested had an influence on vaccination efficacy. Regardless of the vaccine type, the vaccination campaign ultimately played a pivotal role in significantly reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 in Palestine.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in COVID-19 Vaccines and Neutralizing Antibody)
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Open AccessArticle
Pharmacokinetic and Environmental Risk Assessment of Prime-2-CoV, a Non-Replicating Orf Virus-Based Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2
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Carina Metz, Verena Haug, Melanie Müller and Ralf Amann
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050492 - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Viral vector vaccines represent a substantial advancement in immunization technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional vaccine modalities. The Orf virus (ORFV) strain D1701-VrV is a particularly promising candidate for vaccine development due to its distinctive attributes, such as a good safety profile, the
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Viral vector vaccines represent a substantial advancement in immunization technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional vaccine modalities. The Orf virus (ORFV) strain D1701-VrV is a particularly promising candidate for vaccine development due to its distinctive attributes, such as a good safety profile, the ability to elicit both humoral and cellular immunity, and its favorable genetic and thermal stability. Despite ORFV’s theoretical safety advantages, such as its narrow host range and limited systemic spread post-inoculation, a critical gap persists between these theoretical benefits and the empirical evidence regarding its in vivo safety profile. This discrepancy underscores the need for comprehensive preclinical validations to bridge this knowledge gap, especially considering ORFV’s use in humans. Our research introduces Prime-2-CoV, an innovative ORFV-based vaccine candidate against COVID-19, designed to elicit a robust immune response by expressing SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid and Spike proteins. Currently under clinical trials, Prime-2-CoV marks the inaugural application of ORFV in human subjects. Addressing the aforementioned safety concerns, our extensive preclinical evaluation, including an environmental risk assessment (ERA) and detailed pharmacokinetic studies in rats and immunocompromised NOG mice, demonstrates Prime-2-CoV’s favorable pharmacokinetic profile, negligible environmental impact, and minimal ERA risks. These findings not only affirm the vaccine’s safety and efficacy but also pioneer the use of ORFV-based therapeutics, highlighting its potential for wider therapeutic applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety and Immunogenicity of the COVID-19 Vaccine)
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Open AccessArticle
Induction of Superior Systemic and Mucosal Protective Immunity to SARS-CoV-2 by Nasal Administration of a VSV–ΔG–Spike Vaccine
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Yfat Yahalom-Ronen, Sharon Melamed, Boaz Politi, Noam Erez, Hadas Tamir, Liat Bar-On, Julia Ryvkin, Dena Leshkowitz, Ofir Israeli, Shay Weiss, Amir Ben-Shmuel, Moria Barlev-Gross, Lilach Cherry Mimran, Hagit Achdout, Nir Paran and Tomer Israely
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050491 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
The emergence of rapidly spreading variants of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a major challenge to vaccines’ protective efficacy. Intramuscular (IM) vaccine administration induces short-lived immunity but does not prevent infection and transmission. New vaccination strategies are needed to extend
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The emergence of rapidly spreading variants of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a major challenge to vaccines’ protective efficacy. Intramuscular (IM) vaccine administration induces short-lived immunity but does not prevent infection and transmission. New vaccination strategies are needed to extend the longevity of vaccine protection, induce mucosal and systemic immunity and prevent viral transmission. The intranasal (IN) administration of the VSV–ΔG–spike vaccine candidate directly to mucosal surfaces yielded superior mucosal and systemic immunity at lower vaccine doses. Compared to IM vaccination in the K18–hACE2 model, IN vaccination preferentially induced mucosal IgA and T-cells, reduced the viral load at the site of infection, and ameliorated disease-associated brain gene expression. IN vaccination was protective even one year after administration. As most of the world population has been vaccinated by IM injection, we demonstrate the potential of a heterologous IM + IN vaccination regimen to induce mucosal immunity while maintaining systemic immunity. Furthermore, the IM + IN regimen prevented virus transmission in a golden Syrian hamster co-caging model. Taken together, we show that IN vaccination with VSV–ΔG–spike, either as a homologous IN + IN regimen or as a boost following IM vaccination, has a favorable potential over IM vaccination in inducing efficient mucosal immunity, long-term protection and preventing virus transmission.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue SARS-CoV-2 Variants, Vaccines, and Immune Responses)
Open AccessArticle
Novel Multi-Antigen Orf-Virus-Derived Vaccine Elicits Protective Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Response in Monovalent and Bivalent Formats
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Dominique Julien Burri, Louis Renz, Melanie Mueller, Felix Pagallies, Ute Klinkhardt, Ralf Amann and Madiha Derouazi
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050490 - 01 May 2024
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Prime-2-CoV_Beta is a novel Orf virus (ORFV)-based COVID-19 vaccine candidate expressing both the nucleocapsid and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the Beta strain. This candidate was shown to be safe and immunogenic in a first-in-human Phase I clinical
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Prime-2-CoV_Beta is a novel Orf virus (ORFV)-based COVID-19 vaccine candidate expressing both the nucleocapsid and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the Beta strain. This candidate was shown to be safe and immunogenic in a first-in-human Phase I clinical trial. With the shift in the immune landscape toward the Omicron variant and the widespread vaccine- and/or infection-derived immunity, further pre-clinical research was needed to characterize Prime-2-CoV. Here, we quantified the humoral and cellular response to Prime-2-CoV_Beta in pre-immunized mice and compared the protective efficacy of mono- and bivalent variant-based Prime-2-CoV vaccine candidates in hamsters. Prime-2-CoV_Beta induced robust humoral and cellular immune responses in naïve animals but did not further boost antibody titers in the tested setting when given as repeat booster at short interval. We furthermore showed that Prime-2-CoV_Beta-based mono- and bivalent immunization strategies produced comparable immunogenicity and protection from infection. Our results highlight the potential of the Orf virus as a vaccine platform against SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other infectious viruses.
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Open AccessArticle
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Acceleration and Introduction in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Multi-Country Cohort Analysis
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Gbadebo Collins Adeyanju, Tene-Alima Essoh, Annick Raissa Sidibe, Furaha Kyesi and Muyi Aina
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050489 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, is the second-largest cancer killer of women in low- and middle-income countries. The brunt of the global burden is borne predominantly in Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2020 alone, 70,000 of the 100,000 infected women in
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Background: Cervical cancer, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, is the second-largest cancer killer of women in low- and middle-income countries. The brunt of the global burden is borne predominantly in Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2020 alone, 70,000 of the 100,000 infected women in Africa died from it, thereby making up 21% of global cervical cancer mortality. The introduction of the HPV vaccine into the National Immunization Program was expected to change the trajectory. However, uptake of the vaccination has been poor, especially for the second dose. Only about half of the countries in Africa currently provide the vaccine. Without urgent intervention, the 2030 global cervical cancer elimination targets will be undermined. The study aims to understand the key challenges facing the HPV vaccine and to develop a roadmap to accelerate the uptake. Method: Fourteen countries were purposively included using a cohort design methodology and the investigation spanned March–July 2023. The Africa region was stratified into three focus-group discussion cohorts (Abidjan, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam), comprising pre-selected countries that have already and those about to introduce the HPV vaccine. In each country, the EPI manager, the NITAG chair or representatives and an HPV-focal researcher were selected participants. The methods involved a collaborative and knowledge-sharing format through regional and country-specific discussions, plenary discussions, and workshop-style group missions. Results: The study reached a total of 78 key stakeholders, comprising 30 participants in cohort one, 21 in cohort two and 27 in cohort three. Key outcomes included the prevalence of declining HPV2 vaccination across all countries in the region; country-specific barriers impeding uptake were identified and strategy for accelerating vaccination demand initiated, e.g., utilizing investments from COVID-19 (e.g., electronic registry and multisector coordination); individual countries developing their respective HPV vaccination recovery and acceleration roadmaps; the identification and inclusion of a zero-dose catch-up strategy into the vaccination roadmaps; support for a transition from multiple-doses to a single-dose HPV vaccine; the incorporation of implementation science research to support the decision-making process such as vaccine choices, doses and understanding behavior. Conclusion: Beyond research, the study shows the significance of scientific approaches that are not limited to understanding problems, but are also solution-oriented, e.g., development of roadmaps to overcome barriers against HPV vaccination uptake.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection and Vaccination)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of the Universal Implementation of Adolescent Hepatitis B Vaccination in Spain
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Angela Domínguez, Ana Avellón, Victoria Hernando, Núria Soldevila, Eva Borràs, Ana Martínez, Conchita Izquierdo, Núria Torner, Carles Pericas, Cristina Rius and Pere Godoy
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050488 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of the introduction of universal adolescent HBV vaccination on the incidence of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Acute HBV cases reported to the Spanish National Epidemiological Surveillance Network between 2005 and 2021
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The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of the introduction of universal adolescent HBV vaccination on the incidence of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Acute HBV cases reported to the Spanish National Epidemiological Surveillance Network between 2005 and 2021 were included. For regions starting adolescent vaccination in 1991–1993 and in 1994–1996, HBV incidence rates were compared by calculating the incidence rate ratio (IRR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). We also analysed the 2017 Spanish national seroprevalence survey data. The overall acute HBV incidence per 100,000 persons was 1.54 in 2005 and 0.64 in 2021 (p < 0.001). The incidence in 2014–2021 was lower for regions that started adolescent vaccination in 1991–1993 rather than in 1994–1996 (IRR 0.76; 95% CI 0.72–0.83; p < 0.001). In the 20–29 age group, incidence in regions that started adolescent vaccination in 1991–1993 was also lower (IRR 0.87; 95% CI 0.77–0.98; p = 0.02 in 2005–2013 and IRR 0.71; 95% CI 0.56–0·90; p < 0.001 in 2014–2021). Anti-HBc prevalence in the 35–39 age group was lower in the regions that started vaccination earlier, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.09). Acute HBV incidence decreased more in the young adult population in regions that began adolescent vaccination earlier. Maintaining high universal vaccination coverage in the first year of life and in at-risk groups is necessary to achieve HBV elimination by 2030.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of Hepatitis A, B, C and E Vaccines)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Virological Traits of the SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.87.1 Lineage
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Lu Zhang, Alexandra Dopfer-Jablonka, Inga Nehlmeier, Amy Kempf, Luise Graichen, Noemí Calderón Hampel, Anne Cossmann, Metodi V. Stankov, Gema Morillas Ramos, Sebastian R. Schulz, Hans-Martin Jäck, Georg M. N. Behrens, Stefan Pöhlmann and Markus Hoffmann
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050487 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Transmissibility and immune evasion of the recently emerged, highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.87.1 are unknown. Here, we report that BA.2.87.1 efficiently enters human cells but is more sensitive to antibody-mediated neutralization than the currently dominating JN.1 variant. Acquisition of adaptive mutations might thus be
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Transmissibility and immune evasion of the recently emerged, highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.87.1 are unknown. Here, we report that BA.2.87.1 efficiently enters human cells but is more sensitive to antibody-mediated neutralization than the currently dominating JN.1 variant. Acquisition of adaptive mutations might thus be needed for efficient spread in the population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Vaccines)
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Open AccessArticle
Raising Epidemiological Awareness: Assessment of Measles/MMR Susceptibility in Highly Vaccinated Clusters within the Hungarian and Croatian Population—A Sero-Surveillance Analysis
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Dávid Szinger, Timea Berki, Ines Drenjančević, Senka Samardzic, Marija Zelić, Magdalena Sikora, Arlen Požgain, Ákos Markovics, Nelli Farkas, Péter Németh and Katalin Böröcz
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050486 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Perceptions of the complete eradication of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) may foster complacency and compromise vaccination efforts. Decreased measles vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic have heightened the risk of outbreaks, even in adequately vaccinated populations. To address
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Perceptions of the complete eradication of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) may foster complacency and compromise vaccination efforts. Decreased measles vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic have heightened the risk of outbreaks, even in adequately vaccinated populations. To address this, we have aligned with ECDC recommendations, leveraging previous cross-border sero-epidemiological assessments between Pécs, Hungary, and Osijek, Croatia, to identify latent risk groups and uncover potential parallels between our nations. Testing 2680 Hungarian and 1764 Croatian serum samples for anti-MMR IgG via ELISAs revealed anti-measles seropositivity ratios below expectations in Croatian cohorts aged ~20–30 (75.7%), ~30–40 (77.5%) and ~40–50 years (73.3%). Similarly, Hungarian samples also showed suboptimal seropositivity ratios in the ~30–40 (80.9%) and ~40–50 (87.3%) age groups. Considering mumps- and rubella-associated seropositivity trends, in both examined populations, individuals aged ~30–50 years exhibited the highest vulnerability. Additionally, we noted congruent seropositivity trends across both countries, despite distinct immunization and epidemiological contexts. Therefore, we propose expanding research to encompass the intricate dynamics of vaccination, including waning long-term immunity. This understanding could facilitate targeted interventions and bolster public awareness. Our findings underscore persistent challenges in attaining robust immunity against measles despite vaccination endeavors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiological Approaches to Understanding the Role of Environmental and Sociodemographic Factors in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases)
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Open AccessReview
Vaccination and Control Methods of West Nile Virus Infection in Equids and Humans
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Parker M. Cendejas and Alan G. Goodman
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050485 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) is capable of causing severe neurologic disease in both humans and equines, making it a disease of importance in both human medicine and veterinary medicine. No targeted treatments exist for WNV infection in either humans or equines. Infection is
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West Nile virus (WNV) is capable of causing severe neurologic disease in both humans and equines, making it a disease of importance in both human medicine and veterinary medicine. No targeted treatments exist for WNV infection in either humans or equines. Infection is treated symptomatically through management of symptoms like fever and seizures. As treatment for WNV is purely supportive, the response to WNV has focused primarily on methods of disease prevention. To this end, research efforts have yielded several effective vaccines for equine use as well as numerous conventional mosquito control techniques. Even with the implementation of these techniques, disease caused by WNV remains a concern since no human vaccine exists. Due to the lack of a human vaccine, novel preventative strategies are under active research and development. Of these strategies, some of the most conceptually promising are techniques using genetically modified mosquitoes, addressing the disease at the vector level with minimal ecological side effects. Taken together, the use of combined, synergistic methods, such as physical barriers, transgenic mosquitoes, and immunological targets, will be the best way to prevent WNV disease.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Development for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases)
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Open AccessReview
Targeting Plasmodium Life Cycle with Novel Parasite Ligands as Vaccine Antigens
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Shan Khan, Manas Paresh Patel, Aleem Damji Patni and Sung-Jae Cha
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050484 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The WHO reported an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries in 2022. A total of 94% of malaria deaths occurred in Africa, 80% of which were children under 5. In other words, one child dies every minute
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The WHO reported an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries in 2022. A total of 94% of malaria deaths occurred in Africa, 80% of which were children under 5. In other words, one child dies every minute from malaria. The RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine, which uses the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP) to target sporozoite infection of the liver, achieved modest efficacy. The Malaria Vaccine Implementation Program (MVIP), coordinated by the WHO and completed at the end of 2023, found that immunization reduced mortality by only 13%. To further reduce malaria death, the development of a more effective malaria vaccine is a high priority. Three malaria vaccine targets being considered are the sporozoite liver infection (pre-erythrocytic stage), the merozoite red blood cell infection (asexual erythrocytic stage), and the gamete/zygote mosquito infection (sexual/transmission stage). These targets involve specific ligand-receptor interactions. However, most current malaria vaccine candidates that target two major parasite population bottlenecks, liver infection, and mosquito midgut infection, do not focus on such parasite ligands. Here, we evaluate the potential of newly identified parasite ligands with a phage peptide-display technique as novel malaria vaccine antigens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Malaria Vaccine Development)
Open AccessReview
Tuberculosis Vaccines and T Cell Immune Memory
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Fei Li, Wenrui Dang, Yunjie Du, Xiaonan Xu, Pu He, Yuhe Zhou and Bingdong Zhu
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050483 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major infectious disease partly due to the lack of an effective vaccine. Therefore, developing new and more effective TB vaccines is crucial for controlling TB. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) usually parasitizes in macrophages; therefore, cell-mediated immunity plays
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Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major infectious disease partly due to the lack of an effective vaccine. Therefore, developing new and more effective TB vaccines is crucial for controlling TB. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) usually parasitizes in macrophages; therefore, cell-mediated immunity plays an important role. The maintenance of memory T cells following M. tuberculosis infection or vaccination is a hallmark of immune protection. This review analyzes the development of memory T cells during M. tuberculosis infection and vaccine immunization, especially on immune memory induced by BCG and subunit vaccines. Furthermore, the factors affecting the development of memory T cells are discussed in detail. The understanding of the development of memory T cells should contribute to designing more effective TB vaccines and optimizing vaccination strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tuberculosis Vaccine Research: Inducing Immune Memory and Regulation)
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Open AccessArticle
Antibody Response after Homologous and Heterologous Prime–Boost COVID-19 Vaccination in a Bangladeshi Residential University Cohort
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Nihad Adnan, Md. Ahsanul Haq, Salma Akter, S. M. Shafiul Alam Sajal, Md. Fokhrul Islam, Taslin Jahan Mou, Mohd. Raeed Jamiruddin, Fatema Tuz Jubyda, Md. Salequl Islam, Jamsheda Ferdous Tuli, Syeda Moriam Liza, Sharif Hossain, Zinia Islam, Sohel Ahmed, Shahad Saif Khandker, Rubel Hossain, Md. Firoz Ahmed, Mohib Ullah Khondoker, Nafisa Azmuda and Md. Anowar Khasru Parvez
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050482 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccination strategies, including heterologous prime–boost regimens and additional booster doses, aim to optimize immune responses. However, seroepidemiological studies on immune responses to different COVID-19 vaccine types and schedules remain limited. This study investigated antibody levels following homologous and heterologous prime-and-boost COVID-19 vaccination
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COVID-19 vaccination strategies, including heterologous prime–boost regimens and additional booster doses, aim to optimize immune responses. However, seroepidemiological studies on immune responses to different COVID-19 vaccine types and schedules remain limited. This study investigated antibody levels following homologous and heterologous prime-and-boost COVID-19 vaccination in Bangladesh. In a cohort of 606 participants who received first/second/booster doses of vaccines (AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Sinopharm), anti-spike IgG and anti-nucleocapsid IgG levels were measured. Antibody titer variations with respect to age, gender, intervals between doses, and prior infection status were analyzed. mRNA vaccines elicited the highest antibody levels after homologous and heterologous boosting. The AstraZeneca booster resulted in a sharp titer decline rate of ~0.04 units per day. Second or booster vaccine doses significantly increased antibody levels, especially in males (p < 0.05). Older age correlated with higher titers, likely reflecting previous infection, which was further confirmed by the elevation of anti-nucleocapsid IgG levels. About 95.5% of non-Sinopharm recipients were anti-nucleocapsid IgG positive, suggesting prior exposure exceeding self-reported infections (12.5%). mRNA and heterologous COVID-19 boosting enhances humoral immunity over homologous prime–boost vector/inactivated vaccination. However, waning immunity merits further investigation across vaccine platforms.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Immunity and Persistence to SARS-CoV-2 Induced by Infection and Vaccination, Protection against New Infections and Implication for Further Vaccination)
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Open AccessArticle
Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of aH5N1 Vaccine in Adults with and without Underlying Medical Conditions
by
Tomas Jelinek, Tino F. Schwarz, Emil Reisinger, Peter Malfertheiner, Eve Versage, Esther Van Twuijver and Matthew Hohenboken
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050481 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
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Influenza pandemics pose a serious risk to the global population, with the potential for high morbidity and mortality. An adjuvanted H5N1 vaccine (aH5N1) has been approved for prophylaxis against the avian influenza virus H5N1, which is a likely cause of future pandemics. In
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Influenza pandemics pose a serious risk to the global population, with the potential for high morbidity and mortality. An adjuvanted H5N1 vaccine (aH5N1) has been approved for prophylaxis against the avian influenza virus H5N1, which is a likely cause of future pandemics. In this phase-III, stratified, randomized, controlled, observer-blind, multicenter study, we evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of aH5N1 in four separate groups of adults: adults 18–60 years of age who were healthy or had high-risk medical conditions and older adults ≥61 years of age who were healthy or had high-risk medical conditions. Subjects were randomly assigned to aH5N1 or the comparator, adjuvanted trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (aTIV). Antibody responses to aH5N1 were increased in all four subgroups and, within each age stratum, largely consistent between healthy subjects and those with medical conditions. Injection-site pain was reported by 66–73% of younger and 36–42% of older–aH5N1 recipients, and fatigue and myalgia were reported by 22–41% of subjects across age and health subgroups. No serious adverse events or deaths were considered related to the study vaccine. In conclusion, aH5N1 increased antibody responses regardless of age or health status and demonstrated a clinically acceptable safety and tolerability profile.
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Open AccessArticle
Turkish Adaptation, Reliability, and Validity Study of the Vaccine Acceptance Instrument
by
Ayça Kömürlüoğlu, Esra Akaydın Gültürk and Sıddika Songül Yalçın
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050480 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This research study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Vaccine Acceptance Instrument (VAI). The VAI is a 20-item Likert-type scale, with responses ranging across seven points. A systematic approach was followed to translate the scale into
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This research study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Vaccine Acceptance Instrument (VAI). The VAI is a 20-item Likert-type scale, with responses ranging across seven points. A systematic approach was followed to translate the scale into Turkish, involving translation, expert panel evaluation, back-translation, and pilot testing. The Vaccine Acceptance Instrument and a sociodemographic data form were used for data collection. The reliability of the scale was tested by test–retest analysis, and its internal reliability was examined by Cronbach’s alpha test. The factor structure was examined using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed to assess the scale’s fit. Overall, 229 participants were included in the study. In test–retest reliability analysis, the intraclass correlation coefficient of the scale was 0.992 (95% CI: 0.987–0.996). The Cronbach’s alpha value of the scale was 0.824. A four-factor structure was determined. The model had an acceptable fit [χ2/df = 380.04/164 (2,317) p < 0.001, CFI = 0.91, GFI = 0.90, AGFI = 0.906, NFI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.076]. The mean total VAI score was 112.71 ± 17.02. The low education level of the mother, being a housewife, and parents not having the COVID-19 vaccine were statistically significantly associated with a low scale score and low vaccine acceptance (p < 0.05). The Turkish adaptation of the VAI demonstrated satisfactory levels of validity and reliability following rigorous testing.
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Open AccessArticle
Local Immune Activation and Age Impact on Humoral Immunity in Mice, with a Focus on IgG Sialylation
by
Priti Gupta, Tibor Sághy, Miriam Bollmann, Tao Jin, Claes Ohlsson, Hans Carlsten, Carmen Corciulo and Cecilia Engdahl
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050479 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Age alters the host’s susceptibility to immune induction. Humoral immunity with circulating antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin G (IgG), plays an essential role in immune response. IgG glycosylation in the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region, including sialylation, is important in regulating the effector function by interacting
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Age alters the host’s susceptibility to immune induction. Humoral immunity with circulating antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin G (IgG), plays an essential role in immune response. IgG glycosylation in the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region, including sialylation, is important in regulating the effector function by interacting with Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs). Glycosylation is fundamentally changed with age and inflammatory responses. We aimed to explore the regulation of humoral immunity by comparing responses to antigen-induced immune challenges in young and adult mice using a local antigen-induced arthritis mouse model. This study examines the differences in immune response between healthy and immune-challenged states across these groups. Our initial assessment of the arthritis model indicated that adult mice presented more severe knee swelling than their younger counterparts. In contrast, we found that neither histological assessment, bone mineral density, nor the number of osteoclasts differs. Our data revealed an age-associated but not immune challenge increase in total IgG; the only subtype affected by immune challenge was IgG1 and partially IgG3. Interestingly, the sialylation of IgG2b and IgG3 is affected by age and immune challenges but not stimulated further by immune challenges in adult mice. This suggests a shift in IgG towards a pro-inflammatory and potentially pathogenic state with age and inflammation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Humoral and Cellular Response after Vaccination)
Open AccessReview
Harnessing T-Cells for Enhanced Vaccine Development against Viral Infections
by
Zhen Zhuang, Jianfen Zhuo, Yaochang Yuan, Zhao Chen, Shengnan Zhang, Airu Zhu, Jingxian Zhao and Jincun Zhao
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050478 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Despite significant strides in vaccine research and the availability of vaccines for many infectious diseases, the threat posed by both known and emerging infectious diseases persists. Moreover, breakthrough infections following vaccination remain a concern. Therefore, the development of novel vaccines is imperative. These
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Despite significant strides in vaccine research and the availability of vaccines for many infectious diseases, the threat posed by both known and emerging infectious diseases persists. Moreover, breakthrough infections following vaccination remain a concern. Therefore, the development of novel vaccines is imperative. These vaccines must exhibit robust protective efficacy, broad-spectrum coverage, and long-lasting immunity. One promising avenue in vaccine development lies in leveraging T-cells, which play a crucial role in adaptive immunity and regulate immune responses during viral infections. T-cell recognition can target highly variable or conserved viral proteins, and memory T-cells offer the potential for durable immunity. Consequently, T-cell-based vaccines hold promise for advancing vaccine development efforts. This review delves into the latest research advancements in T-cell-based vaccines across various platforms and discusses the associated challenges.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Special Issue Series: T-cell Based Vaccine Development against Pathogen Infections)
Open AccessReview
Promising Cytokine Adjuvants for Enhancing Tuberculosis Vaccine Immunity
by
Xuezhi Cao, Yang-Xin Fu and Hua Peng
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050477 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), remains a formidable global health challenge, affecting a substantial portion of the world’s population. The current tuberculosis vaccine, bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG), offers limited protection against pulmonary tuberculosis in adults, underscoring the critical need for
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Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), remains a formidable global health challenge, affecting a substantial portion of the world’s population. The current tuberculosis vaccine, bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG), offers limited protection against pulmonary tuberculosis in adults, underscoring the critical need for innovative vaccination strategies. Cytokines are pivotal in modulating immune responses and have been explored as potential adjuvants to enhance vaccine efficacy. The strategic inclusion of cytokines as adjuvants in tuberculosis vaccines holds significant promise for augmenting vaccine-induced immune responses and strengthening protection against M. tuberculosis. This review delves into promising cytokines, such as Type I interferons (IFNs), Type II IFN, interleukins such as IL-2, IL-7, IL-15, IL-12, and IL-21, alongside the use of a granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) as an adjuvant, which has shown effectiveness in boosting immune responses and enhancing vaccine efficacy in tuberculosis models.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Special Issue Series: T-cell Based Vaccine Development against Pathogen Infections)
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