Latest Trivalent Influenza TIV Vaccine: Key Components and Coverage

As influenza season approaches, healthcare providers and public health officials are turning their attention to the latest trivalent influenza TIV (inactivated vaccine). This vaccine is designed to protect against the three most prominent strains of influenza virus circulating worldwide. In this article, we will discuss the key components of the most recent trivalent influenza TIV vaccine and the strains it covers.

Composition of the Latest Trivalent Influenza TIV Vaccine

The trivalent influenza TIV vaccine comprises three virus strains: an influenza A(H1N1) subtype, an influenza A(H3N2) subtype, and an influenza B virus. These strains are carefully selected based on ongoing surveillance of influenza activity around the world. The goal is to provide broad protection against the most prevalent strains of influenza.

Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09-like Virus

The first strain covered by the latest trivalent influenza TIV vaccine is the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09-like virus. This is often referred to as the pandemic strain. The strain used in the vaccine is A/Guangdong-Maonan/SWL1536/2019. The selection of this strain is based on its ongoing transmission and its ability to cause severe illness in certain populations. Recent research indicates that the A(H1N1)pdm09 strain remains a significant contributor to influenza activity worldwide.

Influenza A(H3N2)-like Virus

The second strain included in the trivalent influenza TIV vaccine is the influenza A(H3N2)-like virus. This strain is represented by A/Hong Kong/2671/2019. The A(H3N2) strain is particularly noteworth for its ability to rapidly mutate, which can lead to the emergence of new variants. Staying vigilant about this strain is crucial because it has been associated with higher rates of hospitalization and severe illness in certain age groups, particularly the elderly and young children.

Influenza B Virus

The third and final strain covered by the trivalent influenza TIV vaccine is an influenza B virus. This strain is represented by B/Washington/02/2019, which belongs to the B/Victoria lineage. The B/Victoria lineage has been the leading cause of influenza B infections in the past few years. This particular strain is derived from an outbreak that occurred in 2019, and it was selected to ensure the vaccine provides protection against the most prevalent strain circulating.

Conclusion

The trivalent influenza TIV vaccine plays a critical role in prevention and control of influenza. By encompassing three highly relevant strains, the vaccine aims to offer comprehensive protection against the most prevalent influenza viruses circulating globally. Healthcare providers and public health authorities must stay updated on the latest vaccine recommendations to ensure the most effective protection for their communities.

Keywords

Trivalent influenza vaccine, influenza TIV, vaccine strains

References

- CDC: Trivalent Influenza Vaccine Composition - MedicalNewsToday: Influenza A(H1N1) Movie - FluView: Influenza Surveillance Network