Scientists Confirm Theory Using 1918 Flu Virus

New research unveils a promising approach to developing a universal influenza vaccine that could provide lifetime immunity against an evolving virus.

New research led by Oregon Health & Science University shows promise in developing a universal influenza vaccine that could provide lifetime immunity against an evolving virus.
The study, published in Nature Communications, tested a vaccine platform against the 1918 flu virus and found it generated a robust immune response in nonhuman primates exposed to the avian H5N1 influenza virus.
The vaccine platform uses a CMV-based vaccine to target internal structural proteins of the virus, presenting a stationary target for T cells to destroy infected cells.
Results showed that vaccinated nonhuman primates exposed to H5N1 survived, while unvaccinated primates succumbed to the disease, indicating potential for a protective vaccine against severe flu strains.
The success of the study raises the possibility of a one-and-done universal influenza vaccine within five to ten years, with the same vaccine platform also showing promise in treating HIV and cancer.

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