New Data Highlights the Superiority of Cell-Based Influenza Vaccines Over Egg-Based Alternatives in Protecting Against Flu

New Insights into Influenza Vaccines

In the realm of influenza prevention, recent findings have shed light on the effectiveness of cell-based quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIVc) as compared to traditional egg-based vaccines (QIVe). A compelling report from CSL Seqirus has revealed that these cell-based vaccines have achieved a remarkable 19.8% relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) during the 2023/24 influenza season for individuals aged six months to 64 years. This significant data emerges from extensive real-world evidence (RWE) studies conducted over multiple seasons, confirming the superiority of this newer vaccine technology in safeguarding against influenza.

Study Methodology and Findings

This study was a retrospective test-negative design, leveraging data from over 106,000 vaccinated individuals who were tested for influenza. The study encompassed various segments, including pediatric and adult populations, as well as high-risk groups, assessing the relative effectiveness of QIVc against QIVe. The results consistently indicated that the cell-based vaccines provided greater protection against confirmed influenza cases across different demographic groups.

Dr. Gregg Sylvester, Chief Health Officer at CSL Seqirus, emphasized the importance of these findings, particularly in light of last year's harsh flu season, which recorded the highest number of pediatric fatalities since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.