FDA Approves 2016-2017 Influenza Vaccine Formulation

The FDA has approved the 2016-2017 formulation of Flublok influenza vaccine, which includes a new H3N2 component.

This year, the FDA has required that 2 new components be added to trivalent flu vaccines, including a new H3N2 component that was previously required in quadrivalent vaccines. Historically, H3N2 vaccine components have been associated with poor vaccine efficacy when used in egg-based flu vaccines. Because Flublok is egg-free, eliminating these challenges.
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In a clinical study of 9000 adults aged 50 years and older during the 2014/2015 flu season, in which H3N2 was dominant. Individuals who received Flublok were over 40% less likely to get cell culture confirmed influenza than those who received egg-based flu vaccines.

—Michael Potts

Reference:

Protein Sciences Corporation. 2016/17 Formulation of Flublok® Influenza Vaccine Receives FDA Approval [press release]. Meriden, Connecticut. July 12, 2016. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/201617-formulation-of-flublok-influenza-vaccine-receives-fda-approval-300297283.html.