Sino Biological Launches New Antigens for 2026-2027 Influenza Vaccine
On March 4, 2026, Sino Biological, a leading biotech company specialized in recombinant technology, announced the release of new antigens designed for the Northern Hemisphere's influenza vaccine for the 2026-2027 season. This development comes swiftly in response to recent recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), which highlighted the ongoing concerns surrounding the H3N2 subclade K and emerging strains within the B/Victoria lineage.
WHO Recommendations and Virus Evolution
The WHO's latest guidance points to the H3N2 subclade K (J.2.4.1) as the dominant strain of influenza A globally—a notable shift since its identification in August 2025. Characterized by mutations such as T135K and S144N, this strain exhibits a heightened ability to evade the immune response. Consequently, the WHO has designated the A/Darwin/1454/2025 strain as the new reference virus for H3N2, while the H1N1 component has been updated to A/Missouri/11/2025. Additionally, the prevalence of B/Victoria lineage strains has surged, with instances fluctuating between 6% and 20% in regions such as Hong Kong and the United States. In light of this, the WHO has recommended the inclusion of the B/Tokyo/EIS13-175/2025 and B/Pennsylvania/14/2025 strains in the vaccine composition.
Sino Biological's Comprehensive Antigen Portfolio
To support global flu vaccine research and development, Sino Biological has unveiled a wide array of recombinant antigens for the 2026-2027 vaccine strains. This includes the HA trimer from A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1), with a purity verified at ≥90% by SEC-MALS, alongside the NA and NP proteins. Dr. Rob Burgess, Sino Biological's US business director, underscored the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality tools to the scientific community efficiently, especially given the ever-evolving landscape of infectious diseases that threaten global health preparedness.
About Sino Biological
Sino Biological operates as a global biotechnology company focused on providing high-quality recombinant proteins, antibodies, and personalized research services. With a presence in over 90 countries, the firm supports basic research, drug discovery, vaccine development, and diagnostics through its extensive product portfolio, proprietary quality systems, and innovative research platforms.
Forward-Looking Statements
While this announcement includes forward-looking statements as outlined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, such statements are based on Sino Biological’s current management expectations and are subject to various uncertainties and changes in circumstances. The actual outcomes may differ significantly from those projected due to several factors beyond the control of Sino Biological, which does not intend nor is obligated to update these forward-looking statements.
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To learn more about Sino Biological, visit
www.sinobiological.com.