This month, VacZine Analytics, a specialist in infectious diseases and vaccines commercial analysis, has released a new global analysis of the seasonal influenza vaccine market, focusing on mRNA products, including both monovalent and combination vaccines.
Seasonal influenza epidemics typically impact 5-15% of the population globally, leading to respiratory tract infections ranging from mild to severe, with potential fatal outcomes. Annually, an estimated 3-5 million severe cases of influenza illness occur worldwide, resulting in 290,000 to 650,000 deaths, as per the World Health Organization (WHO).
Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent influenza virus infections and associated complications, especially in the context of the ongoing circulation of SARS-CoV-2. High-risk groups recommended for influenza vaccination include the elderly, young children, and individuals with underlying chronic conditions. In the United States, vaccination recommendations have expanded to include all individuals above 6 months of age, with many other countries following suit by broadening their target groups to encompass children.
Following new WHO guidelines issued in February 2024, seasonal influenza vaccines are expected to transition back to the trivalent inactivated format (TIV) due to the absence of the B/Yamagata component present in quadrivalent vaccines (QIV). Developed Western markets also feature advanced influenza vaccine variations like high dose (HD), cell-based, and adjuvanted formulations. In 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) favored differentiated vaccines for individuals over 65 years of age, marking a significant shift in recommendations.
Moving forward, mRNA-based influenza vaccines are anticipated to enter the US market by 2025-26, demonstrating promising immunogenicity in Phase 3 trials, including combined approaches incorporating COVID-19 antigens. Industry experts are actively debating the potential impact of the mRNA platform on the global influenza vaccine market.
In July 2022, VacZine Analytics updated its global seasonal influenza vaccine market forecast to encompass mRNA-based monovalent and combination vaccines, offering a comprehensive outlook through MarketVIEW: seasonal influenza vaccines, a detailed MS Excel-based model and Executive presentation.
