CDC: 2015-2016 Flu Vaccine A Good Match for Circulating Viruses

Currently circulating influenza viruses match well with components of the 2015 to 2016 flu vaccine and are sensitive to neuraminidase inhibitors, according to recent surveillance data.

“During May 24–September 5, 2015, the United States experienced typical low levels of seasonal influenza activity. Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 (pH1N1), influenza A (H3N2), and influenza B viruses were detected worldwide and were identified sporadically in the United States,” said the study’s authors.
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“All of the influenza viruses collected from U.S. states and other countries during that time have been characterized antigenically and/or genetically as being similar to the influenza vaccine viruses recommended for inclusion in the 2015–16 Northern Hemisphere vaccine,” they said.

According to data, 54% of isolates were influenza A (5% pH1N1, 95% subtype H3N2) and 46% were influenza B in the US from May 24 to September 5, 2015.

These viruses are similar to components recommended by the World Health Organization in February for the 2015-2016 vaccines in the Northern Hemisphere.

-Michelle Canales

Reference:

Blanton L, Kniss K, Smith S, et al. Update: influenza activity—United States and worldwide, May 24-September 5, 2015. MMWR. 2015;64(36):1011-1016.