Reference:
Morens, D. M., Taubenberger, J. K., & Fauci, A. S. (2023). Rethinking next-generation vaccines for
coronaviruses, influenza viruses, and other respiratory viruses. Cell Host & Microbe, 31, 146–157. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2022.11.016
Summary:
The authors discuss the challenges in developing effective vaccines for respiratory viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. They highlight that these viruses replicate rapidly in the human respiratory tract and often evade the immune system, resulting in inadequate immunity. Unlike systemic viruses, respiratory viruses do not induce long-lasting protective immunity, complicating vaccine effectiveness. The article emphasises the need for innovative vaccine strategies that account for the unique characteristics of respiratory viruses, such as rapid replication and immune tolerance. Key factors in vaccine development include antigen configuration, administration route, and public health considerations. The authors stress the importance of understanding immune responses to create next-generation vaccines capable of providing robust protection against these persistent and evolving pathogens.