Influenza vaccine

An immunization that trains the immune system to recognize influenza viruses, reducing the risk of infection and severe illness. Formulations are updated to target strains expected to circulate.

Hemagglutinin: A surface protein that lets influenza viruses attach to and enter host cells. Most influenza vaccines induce antibodies against this exposed viral target.
Influenza: A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The vaccine is designed to prevent or lessen this infection and its complications.
Seasonal influenza vaccine: A vaccine formulation updated for influenza viruses expected to circulate during a particular season. Most routine influenza vaccination uses this annually revised approach.
Universal influenza vaccine: A proposed influenza vaccine designed to protect broadly across multiple strains or seasons. Unlike seasonal vaccines, it aims to reduce dependence on frequent strain updates.
Neuraminidase: An influenza virus surface enzyme that helps newly formed virus particles escape infected cells. Antibodies against this protein can contribute to vaccine-induced protection.
Influenza A virus: A type of influenza virus classified into subtypes by its hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins. Seasonal vaccines commonly target selected influenza A subtypes.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine: An influenza vaccine containing weakened viruses that can replicate in the nose without usually causing influenza. It is a distinct nasal-spray option for eligible age groups.
Egg-based influenza vaccine production: A method of producing influenza vaccine viruses by growing them in fertilized chicken eggs. Egg adaptation can alter viral proteins and sometimes reduce match to circulating strains.
Antibody: A protein made by immune cells that binds a specific target, such as a viral protein. Vaccine-elicited antibodies can block influenza viruses from infecting cells.
Influenza B virus: A type of influenza virus that circulates mainly among humans and has no recognized subtypes. Seasonal vaccines also target influenza B lineages.

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