Vaccines

Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review, Other

3 pages, 204 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Past and Future of Vaccinations: From Jenner to Nanovaccinology

by Alessio Facciolà and Giuseppa Visalli

Vaccines 2023, 11(2), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11020384 - 7 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1290

Abstract

Undoubtedly, vaccines are the most effective and safe weapons available to public health for the primary prevention of infectious diseases [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review, Other

14 pages, 2252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Future of Personalized Vaccinology: Study on Individual Variables Influencing the Antibody Response to the COVID-19 Vaccine

by Giuseppa Visalli, Antonio Laganà, Daniela Lo Giudice, Sebastiano Calimeri, Daniela Caccamo, Alessandra Trainito, Angela Di Pietro and Alessio Facciolà

Vaccines 2023, 11(2), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11020217 - 18 Jan 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2206

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely impacted many different aspects of human health, and vaccination is one of the most effective weapons to manage it. However, many different factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities and lifestyles, play a role in the response to infections [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely impacted many different aspects of human health, and vaccination is one of the most effective weapons to manage it. However, many different factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities and lifestyles, play a role in the response to infections and vaccines. We carried out this study to evaluate the potential role played by some individual factors in the production of anti-COVID-19 antibodies in the light of personalized and future vaccinology. We conducted an observational study consisting of a retrospective phase, exploiting previous data about anti-COVID-19 antibody responses, with a prospective phase to investigate individual variables through the use of a questionnaire. The antibody response after the COVID-19 vaccination was inversely related to old age, increased BMI and the number of smoking years, while a positive correlation was found with moderate alcohol consumption and especially with circulating levels of vitamin D, as clearly shown by the multivariate regression analysis. Our study showed that a number of variables are involved in the COVID-19 vaccine antibody response. These findings are very important and can be considered in the light of a future and personalized vaccinology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Higher COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Are Associated with Lower COVID-19 Mortality: A Global Analysis

by Ilir Hoxha, Riaz Agahi, Altina Bimbashi, Mrika Aliu, Lul Raka, Ilirjana Bajraktari, Petrit Beqiri and Lisa V. Adams

Vaccines 2023, 11(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11010074 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8209

Abstract

Mass vaccination initiatives are underway worldwide, and a considerable percentage of the world’s population is now vaccinated. This study examined the association of COVID-19 deaths per 1000 cases with a fully vaccinated population. The global median deaths per 1000 cases were 15.68 (IQR [...] Read more.

Mass vaccination initiatives are underway worldwide, and a considerable percentage of the world’s population is now vaccinated. This study examined the association of COVID-19 deaths per 1000 cases with a fully vaccinated population. The global median deaths per 1000 cases were 15.68 (IQR 9.84, 25.87) after 6 months of vaccinations and 11.96 (IQR 6.08, 20.63) after 12 months. Across 164 countries, we found significant variations in vaccination levels of populations, booster doses, and mortality, with higher vaccine coverage and lower mortality in high-income countries. Several regression models were performed to test the association between vaccination and COVID-19 mortality. Control variables were used to account for confounding variables. A 10-percentage-point increase in vaccination was associated with an 18.1% decrease in mortality after 6 months (95%CI, 7.4–28.8%) and a 16.8% decrease after 12 months (95%CI, 6.9–26.7%). A 10-percentage-point increase in booster vaccination rates was associated with a 33.1% decrease in COVID-19 mortality (95%CI, 16.0–50.2%). This relationship is present in most analyses by country income groups with variations in the effect size. Efforts are needed to reduce vaccine hesitancy while ensuring suitable infrastructure and supply to enable all countries to increase their vaccination rates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Age-Group Interrupted Time-Series Study for Evaluating the Effectiveness of National Expanded Program on Immunization on Mumps

by Chen Shi, Wen-Hui Liu, Lin Yang, Ze-Lin Yan, Li Li, Zhou-Bin Zhang and Chun-Quan Ou

Vaccines 2022, 10(10), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10101587 - 21 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1873

Abstract

The national Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in China has covered vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, among children aged 18–24 months since September 2008. However, no previous studies have quantified the effectiveness of the EPI on mumps incidence. There are methodological challenges [...] Read more.

The national Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in China has covered vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, among children aged 18–24 months since September 2008. However, no previous studies have quantified the effectiveness of the EPI on mumps incidence. There are methodological challenges in assessing the effect of an intervention that targets a subpopulation but finally influences the whole population. In this study, monthly data on mumps incidence were collected in Guangzhou, China, during 2005–2019. We proposed a multi-age-group interrupted time-series design, setting the starting time of exerting effect separately for 14 different age groups. A mixed-effects quasi-Poisson regression was applied to analyze the effectiveness of the EPI on mumps incidence, after controlling for long-term and seasonal trends, and meteorological factors. The model also accounted for the first-order autocorrelation within each age group. Between-age-group correlations were expressed using the contact matrix of age groups. We found that 70,682 mumps cases were reported during 2005–2019, with an annual incidence rate of 37.91 cases per 100,000 population. The effect of EPI strengthened over time, resulting in a decrease in the incidence of mumps by 16.6% (EPI-associated excess risk% = −16.6%, 95% CI: −27.0% to −4.7%) in September 2009 to 40.1% (EPI-associated excess risk% = −40.1%, 95% CI: −46.1% to −33.3%) in September 2019. A reverse U-shape pattern was found in age-specific effect estimates, with the largest reduction of 129 cases per 100,000 population (95% CI: 14 to 1173) in those aged 4–5 years. The EPI is effective in reducing the mumps incidence in Guangzhou. The proposed modeling strategy can be applied for simultaneous assessment of the effectiveness of public health interventions across different age groups, with adequate adjustment for within- and between-group correlations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3365 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CRISPR/Cas9 Editing of Duck Enteritis Virus Genome for the Construction of a Recombinant Vaccine Vector Expressing ompH Gene of Pasteurella multocida in Two Novel Insertion Sites

by Nisachon Apinda, Yongxiu Yao, Yaoyao Zhang, Vishwanatha R. A. P. Reddy, Pengxiang Chang, Venugopal Nair and Nattawooti Sthitmatee

Vaccines 2022, 10(5), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10050686 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3485

Abstract

Duck enteritis virus (DEV) and Pasteurella multocida, the causative agent of duck plague and fowl cholera, are acute contagious diseases and leading causes of morbidity and mortality in duck. The NHEJ-CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing strategy, accompanied with the Cre–Lox system, have been employed [...] Read more.

Duck enteritis virus (DEV) and Pasteurella multocida, the causative agent of duck plague and fowl cholera, are acute contagious diseases and leading causes of morbidity and mortality in duck. The NHEJ-CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing strategy, accompanied with the Cre–Lox system, have been employed in the present study to show that two new sites at UL55-LORF11 and UL44-44.5 loci in the genome of the attenuated Jansen strain of DEV can be used for the stable expression of the outer membrane protein H (ompH) gene of P. multocida that could be used as a bivalent vaccine candidate with the potential of protecting ducks simultaneously against major viral and bacterial pathogens. The two recombinant viruses, DEV-OmpH-V5-UL55-LORF11 and DEV-OmpH-V5-UL44-44.5, with the insertion of ompH-V5 gene at the UL55-LORF11 and UL44-44.5 loci respectively, showed similar growth kinetics and plaque size, compared to the wildtype virus, confirming that the insertion of the foreign gene into these did not have any detrimental effects on DEV. This is the first time the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been applied to insert a highly immunogenic gene from bacteria into the DEV genome rapidly and efficiently. This approach offers an efficient way to introduce other antigens into the DEV genome for multivalent vector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 1045 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Low Neutralizing Antibody Titers against the Mu Variant of SARS-CoV-2 in 31 BNT162b2 Vaccinated Individuals in Colombia

by Diego A. Álvarez-Díaz, Ana Luisa Muñoz, Pilar Tavera-Rodríguez, María T. Herrera-Sepúlveda, Hector Alejandro Ruiz-Moreno, Katherine Laiton-Donato, Carlos Franco-Muñoz, Dioselina Pelaez-Carvajal, Diego Cuellar, Alejandra M. Muñoz-Suarez, Marisol Galindo, Edgar J. Arias-Ramírez and Marcela Mercado-Reyes

Vaccines 2022, 10(2), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10020180 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3844

Abstract

Global surveillance programs for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are showing the emergence of variants with mutations in the spike protein. Genomic and laboratory surveillance are important to determine if these variants may be more infectious or less susceptible to antiviral [...] Read more.

Global surveillance programs for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are showing the emergence of variants with mutations in the spike protein. Genomic and laboratory surveillance are important to determine if these variants may be more infectious or less susceptible to antiviral treatments and vaccine-induced antibodies. Three of the most predominant SARS-CoV-2 variants in Colombia during the epidemiological peaks of 2021 were isolated: Mu, a variant of interest; Gamma, a variant of concern; B.1.111, which lacks genetic markers associated with greater virulence. Microneutralization assays were performed by incubating 120 mean tissue culture infectious doses (TCID50) of each SARS-CoV-2 isolate with five two-fold serial dilutions of sera from 31 BNT162b2-vaccinated volunteers. The mean neutralization titer (MN50) was calculated by the Reed–Muench method. At the end of August, Mu represented 49% of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Colombia, followed by 25% of Gamma. In contrast, B.1.111 became almost undetectable. The evaluation of neutralizing antibodies suggests that patients vaccinated with BNT162b2 generate neutralizing antibody titers against the Mu variant at significantly lower concentrations relative to B.1.111 and Gamma. This study shows the importance of continuing surveillance programs of emerging variants, as well as the need to evaluate the neutralizing antibody response induced by other vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 3308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ISCOM-like Nanoparticles Formulated with Quillaja brasiliensis Saponins Are Promising Adjuvants for Seasonal Influenza Vaccines

by Mariana Rivera-Patron, María Moreno, Mariana Baz, Paulo M. Roehe, Samuel P. Cibulski and Fernando Silveira

Vaccines 2021, 9(11), 1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9111350 - 18 Nov 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3891

Abstract

Vaccination is the most effective public health intervention to prevent influenza infections, which are responsible for an important burden of respiratory illnesses and deaths each year. Currently, licensed influenza vaccines are mostly split inactivated, although in order to achieve higher efficacy rates, some [...] Read more.

Vaccination is the most effective public health intervention to prevent influenza infections, which are responsible for an important burden of respiratory illnesses and deaths each year. Currently, licensed influenza vaccines are mostly split inactivated, although in order to achieve higher efficacy rates, some influenza vaccines contain adjuvants. Although split-inactivated vaccines induce mostly humoral responses, tailoring mucosal and cellular immune responses is crucial for preventing influenza infections. Quillaja brasiliensis saponin-based adjuvants, including ISCOM-like nanoparticles formulated with the QB-90 saponin fraction (IQB90), have been studied in preclinical models for more than a decade and have been demonstrated to induce strong humoral and cellular immune responses towards several viral antigens. Herein, we demonstrate that a split-inactivated IQB90 adjuvanted influenza vaccine triggered a protective immune response, stronger than that induced by a commercial unadjuvanted vaccine, when applied either by the subcutaneous or the intranasal route. Moreover, we reveal that this novel adjuvant confers up to a ten-fold dose-sparing effect, which could be crucial for pandemic preparedness. Last but not least, we assessed the role of caspase-1/11 in the generation of the immune response triggered by the IQB90 adjuvanted influenza vaccine in a mouse model and found that the cellular-mediated immune response triggered by the IQB90-Flu relies, at least in part, on a mechanism involving the casp-1/11 pathway but not the humoral response elicited by this formulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 967 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Respiratory Syncytial Virus: New Challenges for Molecular Epidemiology Surveillance and Vaccination Strategy in Patients with ILI/SARI

by Fabio Tramuto, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Daniela Di Naro, Giulia Randazzo, Francesco Vitale, Vincenzo Restivo, Claudio Costantino, Emanuele Amodio, Alessandra Casuccio, Giorgio Graziano, Palmira Immordino and Walter Mazzucco

Vaccines 2021, 9(11), 1334; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9111334 - 16 Nov 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3275

Abstract

Several respiratory pathogens are responsible for influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe respiratory infections (SARI), among which human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) represents one of the most common aetiologies. We analysed the hRSV prevalence among subjects with ILI or SARI during the five influenza [...] Read more.

Several respiratory pathogens are responsible for influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe respiratory infections (SARI), among which human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) represents one of the most common aetiologies. We analysed the hRSV prevalence among subjects with ILI or SARI during the five influenza seasons before the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Sicily (Italy). Respiratory specimens from ILI outpatients and SARI inpatients were collected in the framework of the Italian Network for the Influenza Surveillance and molecularly tested for hRSV-A and hRSV-B. Overall, 8.1% of patients resulted positive for hRSV. Prevalence peaked in the age-groups <5 years old (range: 17.6–19.1%) and ≥50 years old (range: 4.8–5.1%). While the two subgroups co-circulated throughout the study period, hRSV-B was slightly predominant over hRSV-A, except for the season 2019–2020 when hRSV-A strongly prevailed (82.9%). In the community setting, the distribution of hRSV subgroups was balanced (47.8% vs. 49.7% for hRSV-A and hRSV-B, respectively), while most infections identified in the hospital setting were caused by hRSV-B (69.5%); also, this latter one was more represented among hRSV cases with underlying diseases, as well as among those who developed a respiratory complication. The molecular surveillance of hRSV infections may provide a valuable insight into the epidemiological features of ILI/SARI. Our findings add new evidence to the existing knowledge on viral aetiology of ILI and SARI in support of public health strategies and may help to define high-risk categories that could benefit from currently available and future vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Anti-Bacterial Immunity against Systemic Infection by Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Elicited by a GMMA-Based Vaccine

by Fabio Fiorino, Elena Pettini, Oliver Koeberling, Annalisa Ciabattini, Gianni Pozzi, Laura B. Martin and Donata Medaglini

Vaccines 2021, 9(5), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9050495 - 12 May 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3732

Abstract

Salmonella Typhimurium (STm) represents the most prevalent cause of invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) disease, and currently no licensed vaccine is available. In this work we characterized the long-term anti-bacterial immunity elicited by a STm vaccine based on Generalized Modules of Membrane Antigens (GMMA) [...] Read more.

Salmonella Typhimurium (STm) represents the most prevalent cause of invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) disease, and currently no licensed vaccine is available. In this work we characterized the long-term anti-bacterial immunity elicited by a STm vaccine based on Generalized Modules of Membrane Antigens (GMMA) delivering O:4,5 antigen, using a murine model of systemic infection. Subcutaneous immunization of mice with STmGMMA/Alhydrogel elicited rapid, high, and persistent antigen-specific serum IgG and IgM responses. The serum was bactericidal in vitro. O:4,5-specific IgG were also detected in fecal samples after immunization and positively correlated with IgG observed in intestinal washes. Long-lived plasma cells and O:4,5-specific memory B cells were detected in spleen and bone marrow. After systemic STm challenge, a significant reduction of bacterial load in blood, spleen, and liver, as well as a reduction of circulating neutrophils and G-CSF glycoprotein was observed in STmGMMA/Alhydrogel immunized mice compared to untreated animals. Taken together, these data support the development of a GMMA-based vaccine for prevention of iNTS disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2606 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate Dehydrogenase Common Peptides of Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium marinum and Streptococcus pneumoniae as Universal Vaccines

by David Salcines-Cuevas, Hector Terán-Navarro, Ricardo Calderón-Gonzalez, Paula Torres-Rodriguez, Raquel Tobes, Manuel Fresno, Jorge Calvo-Montes, I. Concepción Pérez Del Molino-Bernal, Sonsoles Yañez-Diaz and Carmen Alvarez-Dominguez

Vaccines 2021, 9(3), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9030269 - 17 Mar 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2894

Abstract

Universal vaccines can be prepared with antigens common to different pathogens. In this regard, the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a common virulence factor among pathogenic bacteria of the genera Listeria, Mycobacterium and Streptococcus. Their N-terminal 22 amino acid peptides, GAPDH-L1 (Listeria), [...] Read more.

Universal vaccines can be prepared with antigens common to different pathogens. In this regard, the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a common virulence factor among pathogenic bacteria of the genera Listeria, Mycobacterium and Streptococcus. Their N-terminal 22 amino acid peptides, GAPDH-L1 (Listeria), GAPDH-M1 (Mycobacterium) and GAPDH-S1 (Streptococcus), share 95–98.55% sequence homology, biochemical and MHC binding abilities and, therefore, are good candidates for universal vaccine designs. Here, we used dendritic cells (DC) as vaccine platforms to test GAPDH epitopes that conferred protection against Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium marinum or Streptococcus pneumoniae in our search of epitopes for universal vaccines. DC loaded with GAPDH-L1, GAPDH-M1 or GAPDH-S1 peptides show high immunogenicity measured by the cellular DTH responses in mice, lacked toxicity and were capable of cross-protection immunity against mice infections with each one of the pathogens. Vaccine efficiency correlated with high titers of anti-GAPDH-L1 antibodies in sera of vaccinated mice, a Th1 cytokine pattern and high frequencies of GAPDH-L1-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and IFN-γ producers in the spleens. We concluded that GAPDH-L1 peptide was the best epitope for universal vaccines in the Listeria, Mycobacterium or Streptococcus taxonomic groups, whose pathogenic strains caused relevant morbidities in adults and especially in the elderly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research, Other

18 pages, 1162 KiB

Open AccessReview

Indirect Dispersion of SARS-CoV-2 Live-Attenuated Vaccine and Its Contribution to Herd Immunity

by Ursino Pacheco-García and Jeanet Serafín-López

Vaccines 2023, 11(3), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11030655 - 14 Mar 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3101

Abstract

It has been 34 months since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic, which causes the COVID-19 disease. In several countries, immunization has reached a proportion near what is required to reach herd immunity. Nevertheless, infections and re-infections have been observed even in [...] Read more.

It has been 34 months since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic, which causes the COVID-19 disease. In several countries, immunization has reached a proportion near what is required to reach herd immunity. Nevertheless, infections and re-infections have been observed even in vaccinated persons. That is because protection conferred by vaccines is not entirely effective against new virus variants. It is unknown how often booster vaccines will be necessary to maintain a good level of protective immunity. Furthermore, many individuals refuse vaccination, and in developing countries, a large proportion of the population has not yet been vaccinated. Some live-attenuated vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 are being developed. Here, we analyze the indirect dispersion of a live-attenuated virus from vaccinated individuals to their contacts and the contribution that this phenomenon could have to reaching Herd Immunity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 748 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview of Vaccine Adjuvants: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

by Alessio Facciolà, Giuseppa Visalli, Antonio Laganà and Angela Di Pietro

Vaccines 2022, 10(5), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10050819 - 22 May 2022

Cited by 107 | Viewed by 21957

Abstract

Vaccinations are one of the most important preventive tools against infectious diseases. Over time, many different types of vaccines have been developed concerning the antigen component. Adjuvants are essential elements that increase the efficacy of vaccination practises through many different actions, especially acting [...] Read more.

Vaccinations are one of the most important preventive tools against infectious diseases. Over time, many different types of vaccines have been developed concerning the antigen component. Adjuvants are essential elements that increase the efficacy of vaccination practises through many different actions, especially acting as carriers, depots, and stimulators of immune responses. For many years, few adjuvants have been included in vaccines, with aluminium salts being the most commonly used adjuvant. However, recent research has focused its attention on many different new compounds with effective adjuvant properties and improved safety. Modern technologies such as nanotechnologies and molecular biology have forcefully entered the production processes of both antigen and adjuvant components, thereby improving vaccine efficacy. Microparticles, emulsions, and immune stimulators are currently in the spotlight for their huge potential in vaccine production. Although studies have reported some potential side effects of vaccine adjuvants such as the recently recognised ASIA syndrome, the huge worth of vaccines remains unquestionable. Indeed, the recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of vaccines, especially in regard to managing future potential pandemics. In this field, research into adjuvants could play a leading role in the production of increasingly effective vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1928 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis of the Yellow Fever Vaccine in the Elderly Population

by Ariane de Jesus Lopes de Abreu, João Roberto Cavalcante, Letícia Wigg de Araújo Lagos, Rosângela Caetano and José Ueleres Braga

Vaccines 2022, 10(5), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10050711 - 30 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2660

Abstract

We conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis to assess the risk of serious adverse events in the elderly after yellow fever vaccination compared to the non-elderly population. We searched multiple databases and grey literature, and we selected research without language and publication [...] Read more.

We conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis to assess the risk of serious adverse events in the elderly after yellow fever vaccination compared to the non-elderly population. We searched multiple databases and grey literature, and we selected research without language and publication date restrictions. Studies were analyzed in a descriptive way and meta-analyzed and expressed in terms of prevalence ratio and risk ratio with a 95% confidence interval, depending on the degree of heterogeneity found. A total of 18 studies were included and 11 were meta-analyzed. The results obtained through the meta-analysis showed a risk of serious adverse events after yellow fever vaccination three times higher for the elderly when compared to the non-elderly population and five times higher for persons > 70 years. In relation to adverse event types, viscerotropic disease associated with the yellow fever vaccine had a risk that was six times higher when compared to the population < 60 years. The evidence found supports that the vaccine indication in individuals > 60 years of age should be based on a careful analysis of individual benefit-risk assessments. The results found suggest a higher risk of events for individuals > 70 years, especially for viscerotropic and neurotropic disease associated with YFV contraindicating the use of the YFV in this age group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 374 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Take on Systemic Sclerosis Patients’ Vaccination Recommendations

by Giuseppe Murdaca, Giovanni Noberasco, Dario Olobardi, Claudio Lunardi, Matteo Maule, Lorenzo Delfino, Massimo Triggiani, Chiara Cardamone, Devis Benfaremo, Gianluca Moroncini, Angelo Vacca, Nicola Susca, Sebastiano Gangemi, Paola Quattrocchi, Laura Sticchi, Giancarlo Icardi and Andrea Orsi

Vaccines 2021, 9(12), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9121426 - 2 Dec 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3945

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease. The prevalence of SSc ranges from 7 to 700 cases per million worldwide. Due to multiple organ involvement and constant inflammatory state, this group of patients presents an increased risk of infectious diseases. [...] Read more.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease. The prevalence of SSc ranges from 7 to 700 cases per million worldwide. Due to multiple organ involvement and constant inflammatory state, this group of patients presents an increased risk of infectious diseases. This paper aimed to gather the up-to-date evidence on vaccination strategies for patients with SSc and to be a useful tool for the prevention and management of infectious diseases. The authors conducted a scoping review in which each paragraph presents data on a specific vaccine’s safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy. The work deals with the following topics: SARS-CoV-2, seasonal influenza, S. pneumoniae, HAV, HBV, HZV, N. meningitidis, H. influenzae, HPV, and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

11 pages, 235 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prevention of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection with Vaccines: State of the Art

by Susanna Esposito, Giulia Chiopris, Giulia Messina, Tiziana D’Alvano, Serafina Perrone and Nicola Principi

Vaccines 2021, 9(5), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9050523 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3156

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common cause of congenital infection and non-genetic sensorineural hearing loss in childhood. Up to 2% of neonates, with the highest percentages found in developing countries, are congenitally infected with CMV. At birth, most of these infants are asymptomatic. [...] Read more.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common cause of congenital infection and non-genetic sensorineural hearing loss in childhood. Up to 2% of neonates, with the highest percentages found in developing countries, are congenitally infected with CMV. At birth, most of these infants are asymptomatic. However, approximately 10% have signs and symptoms of the disease, and 40–60% of symptomatic neonates will later develop permanent neurologic sequelae. To reduce congenital CMV (cCMV) infection, a vaccine able to prevent primary infection is essential. In this narrative review, actual ongoing research about the development of a CMV vaccine is discussed. The progressive increase in knowledge on the ways in which the host’s immune system and CMV relate has made it possible to clarify that the development of a vaccine that is certainly capable of reducing the risk of cCMV infection, and preventing both primary and nonprimary infections is extremely difficult. Many of the ways in which the virus evades the immune system and causes cCMV infection are not yet fully understood, especially in cases of nonprimary infection. Moreover, the schedule that should be recommended and that subjects must be vaccinated to obtain the greatest effect have not been precisely defined. Further studies are needed before the problem of cCMV infection and its related challenges can be totally solved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

Other

Jump to: Editorial, Research, Review

12 pages, 7313 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Adult Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination Coverage in China from 2011 to 2021: A Systematic Review

by Xinxin Bai, Lu Chen, Xinyao Liu, Yujia Tong, Lu Wang, Minru Zhou, Yanming Li and Guangyu Hu

Vaccines 2022, 10(6), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10060900 - 6 Jun 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2851

Abstract

Background: The most effective way to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is vaccination. Synthesized data on vaccination coverage in adults against hepatitis B in China are scarce. We aimed to estimate the hepatitis B vaccination rate in adults in China. Methods: We [...] Read more.

Background: The most effective way to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is vaccination. Synthesized data on vaccination coverage in adults against hepatitis B in China are scarce. We aimed to estimate the hepatitis B vaccination rate in adults in China. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, and Sinomed databases for observational studies published between 1 January 2011 and 1 October 2021. Data were extracted using a standardized form to estimate the pooled vaccination coverage rate and 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subgroup analysis was employed to explore heterogeneity. This study is registered in PROSPERO, CRD42021293175. Results: We identified 5128 records, of which 21 articles that included 34,6571 adults. The pooled coverage rate and 95% confidence intervals were 26.27% and 22.73–29.82%, respectively. The pooled coverage rates were 22.06% (95% CI: 15.35–28.78%), 33.81% (95% CI: 28.77–38.85%) and 23.50% (95% CI: 17.37–29.64%) in eastern China, central China and western China, respectively. Furthermore, males had a pooled hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate of 23.47% (95% CI: 15.61–31.33%), whereas, in females, the coverage rate was 26.60% (95% CI: 18.73–34.47%). The pooled hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate in the age group younger than 40 years was 36.93% (95% CI: 28.35–45.50%), while in the ≥40-year-old group, the pooled hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate was 17.09% (95% CI: 10.18–24.00%). The pooled hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate in urban areas (40.29%, 95% CI: 20.91–59.67%) was higher than in rural areas (16.54%, 95% CI: 7.80–25.29%). The average weighted, pooled hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate was 26.53% (20.25–32.81%) in 2011–2015 and 26.12% (22.04–30.20%) in 2016–2021. Conclusions: This systematic review provides the hepatitis B vaccination coverage rate of adults in China (26.27%). The low prevalence of vaccine-mediated immunity among adults in China underscores the urgent need for targeted immunization strategies for vulnerable Chinese adults to ensure progress toward the target of eliminating hepatitis B by 2030. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Present and Future Vaccinations: Current Strategies and New Perspectives in the Fight against Infectious Diseases

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (16 papers)

Editorial

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI