Journal Description
Vaccines
Vaccines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The American Society for Virology (ASV) is affiliated with Vaccines and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Immunology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Pharmacology (medical))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
7.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
7.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Construction and Mechanism Exploration of Highly Efficient System for Bacterial Ghosts Preparation Based on Engineered Phage ID52 Lysis Protein E
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050472 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bacterial ghosts (BGs) are hollow bacterial cell envelopes with intact cellular structures, presenting as promising candidates for various biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, the yield and productivity of BGs have encountered limitations, hindering their large-scale preparation and multi-faceted applications of BGs. Further optimization
[...] Read more.
Bacterial ghosts (BGs) are hollow bacterial cell envelopes with intact cellular structures, presenting as promising candidates for various biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, the yield and productivity of BGs have encountered limitations, hindering their large-scale preparation and multi-faceted applications of BGs. Further optimization of BGs is needed for the commercial application of BG technology. In this study, we screened out the most effective lysis protein ID52-E-W4A among 13 mutants based on phage ID52 lysis protein E and optimized the liquid culture medium for preparing Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN). The results revealed a significantly higher lysis rate of ID52-E-W4A compared to that of ID52-E in the 2xYT medium. Furthermore, EcN BGs were cultivated in a fermenter, achieving an initial OD600 as high as 6.0 after optimization, indicating enhanced BG production. Moreover, the yield of ID52-E-W4A-induced BGs reached 67.0%, contrasting with only a 3.1% yield from φX174-E-induced BGs. The extended applicability of the lysis protein ID52-E-W4A was demonstrated through the preparation of Salmonella pullorum ghosts and Salmonella choleraesuis ghosts. Knocking out the molecular chaperone gene slyD and dnaJ revealed that ID52-mediated BGs could still undergo lysis. Conversely, overexpression of integral membrane enzyme gene mraY resulted in the loss of lysis activity for ID52-E, suggesting that the lysis protein ID52-E may no longer rely on SlyD or DnaJ to function, with MraY potentially being the target of ID52-E. This study introduces a novel approach utilizing ID52-E-W4A for recombinant expression, accelerating the BG formation and thereby enhancing BG yield and productivity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines against Infectious Diseases)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
High Concentration of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies 2 Years after COVID-19 Vaccination Stems Not Only from Boosters but Also from Widespread, Often Unrecognized, Contact with the Virus
by
Jakub Swadźba, Andrzej Panek, Paweł Wąsowicz, Tomasz Anyszek and Emilia Martin
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050471 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study follows 99 subjects vaccinated with Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines over two years, with particular focus on the last year of observation (between days 360 and 720). The response to the vaccination was assessed with Diasorin’s SARS-CoV-2 TrimericSpike IgG. Screening for SARS-CoV-2 infection
[...] Read more.
This study follows 99 subjects vaccinated with Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines over two years, with particular focus on the last year of observation (between days 360 and 720). The response to the vaccination was assessed with Diasorin’s SARS-CoV-2 TrimericSpike IgG. Screening for SARS-CoV-2 infection was performed with Abbott’s SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid IgG immunoassay. Data from questionnaires were also analyzed. Two years after the first vaccine dose administration, 100% of the subjects were positive for anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 IgG and the median antibody level was still high (3600 BAU/mL), dropping insignificantly over the last year. Simultaneously, a substantial increase in seropositivity in anti-nucleocapsid SARS-CoV-2 IgG was noted, reaching 33%. There was no statistically significant agreement between anti-N seropositivity and reported COVID-19. Higher anti-spike concentrations and lower COVID-19 incidence was seen in the older vaccinees. It was noted that only subjects boosted between days 360 and 720 showed an increase in anti-spike IgG concentrations. The higher antibody concentrations (median 7440 BAU/mL) on day 360 were noted in participants not infected over the following year. Vaccination, including booster administrations, and natural, even unrecognized, contact with SARS-CoV-2 entwined two years after the primary vaccination, leading to high anti-spike antibody concentrations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition of Antibody Response to Infection and Vaccination)
Open AccessArticle
Attitude to Co-Administration of Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccines among Pregnant Women Exploring the Health Action Process Approach Model
by
Alessandra Fallucca, Palmira Immordino, Patrizia Ferro, Luca Mazzeo, Sefora Petta, Antonio Maiorana, Marianna Maranto, Alessandra Casuccio and Vincenzo Restivo
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050470 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Respiratory tract diseases caused by influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 can represent a serious threat to the health of pregnant women. Immunological remodulation for fetus tolerance and physiological changes in the gestational chamber expose both mother and child to fearful complications and a high
[...] Read more.
Respiratory tract diseases caused by influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 can represent a serious threat to the health of pregnant women. Immunological remodulation for fetus tolerance and physiological changes in the gestational chamber expose both mother and child to fearful complications and a high risk of hospitalization. Vaccines to protect pregnant women from influenza and COVID-19 are strongly recommended and vaccine co-administration could be advantageous to increase coverage of both vaccines. The attitude to accept both vaccines is affected by several factors: social, cultural, and cognitive-behavioral. In Palermo, Italy, during the 2021–2022 influenza season, a cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate pregnant women’s intention to adhere to co-administration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. The determinants of vaccination attitude were investigated through the administration of a questionnaire and the Health Action Process Approach theory was adopted to explore the cognitive behavioral aspects. Overall, 120 pregnant women were enrolled; mean age 32 years, 98.2% (n = 118) of Italian nationality and 25.2% (n = 30) with obstetric or pathological conditions of pregnancy at risk. Factors significantly associated with the attitude to co-administration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines among pregnant women were: high level of education (OR = 13.96; p < 0.001), positive outcome expectations (OR = 2.84; p < 0.001), and self-efficacy (OR = 3.1; p < 0.001). Effective strategies to promote the co-administration of the influenza vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine should be based on the communication of the benefits and positive outcomes of vaccine co-administration and on the adequate information of pregnant women.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Strategies for COVID-19 II)
Open AccessArticle
Identification and Quantification of a Pneumococcal Cell Wall Polysaccharide by Antibody-Enhanced Chromatography Assay
by
James Z. Deng, Zhifeng Chen, James Small, Yue Yuan, Kara Cox, Aimin Tang, Jeanette Roman, Liming Guan, Katrina Feller, Frances Ansbro and Kalpit Vora
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050469 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Multivalent pneumococcal vaccines have been developed successfully to combat invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD) and reduce the associated healthcare burden. These vaccines employ pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides (PnPs), either conjugated or unconjugated, as antigens to provide serotype-specific protection. Pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides used for vaccine often
[...] Read more.
Multivalent pneumococcal vaccines have been developed successfully to combat invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD) and reduce the associated healthcare burden. These vaccines employ pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides (PnPs), either conjugated or unconjugated, as antigens to provide serotype-specific protection. Pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides used for vaccine often contain residual levels of cell wall polysaccharides (C-Ps), which can generate a non-serotype specific immune response and complicate the desired serotype-specific immunity. Therefore, the C-P level in a pneumococcal vaccine needs to be controlled in the vaccine process and the anti C-P responses need to be dialed out in clinical assays. Currently, two types of cell-wall polysaccharide structures have been identified: a mono-phosphocholine substituted cell-wall polysaccharide C-Ps1 and a di-phosphocholine substituted C-Ps2 structure. In our effort to develop a next-generation novel pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), we have generated a monoclonal antibody (mAb) specific to cell-wall polysaccharide C-Ps2 structure. An antibody-enhanced HPLC assay (AE-HPLC) has been established for serotype-specific quantification of pneumococcal polysaccharides in our lab. With the new anti C-Ps2 mAb, we herein extend the AE-HPLC assay to the quantification and identification of C-Ps2 species in pneumococcal polysaccharides used for vaccines.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
A Comparison of the Immunogenicity and Safety of an Additional Heterologous versus Homologous COVID-19 Vaccination among Non-Seroconverted Immunocompromised Patients after a Two-Dose Primary Series of mRNA Vaccination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by
Chatchaya Nangsue, Karan Srisurapanont and Tavitiya Sudjaritruk
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050468 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the immunogenicity and safety of an additional heterologous (viral vector) versus homologous (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccine dose among non-seroconverted immunocompromised patients after a two-dose primary series of mRNA vaccine. We searched studies published up to 21
[...] Read more.
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the immunogenicity and safety of an additional heterologous (viral vector) versus homologous (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccine dose among non-seroconverted immunocompromised patients after a two-dose primary series of mRNA vaccine. We searched studies published up to 21 June 2023 in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. The meta-analysis was conducted to compare the seropositivity rates based on anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein IgG (anti-S IgG) and SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell immune response rates, assessed by interferon-γ release assay at 4 weeks, and the incidences of serious adverse events (SAEs) within 28 days between the two vaccine regimens. In four included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), there were no statistically significant differences in the seropositive rate of anti-S IgG (risk ratio [RR]: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.48–1.29) and the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 interferon-γ (RR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.96–1.48) between heterologous and homologous regimens. The heterologous regimen exhibited a significantly lower incidence of injection pain (RR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.45–0.69), but a higher incidence of headache (RR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.02–2.02) compared with the homologous regimen. No vaccine-related SAEs were reported within 28 days following vaccination. An additional heterologous or homologous COVID-19 vaccine dose was well tolerated and demonstrated a comparable vaccine immunogenicity among non-seroconverted immunocompromised patients who were initially vaccinated with a two-dose COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. This finding supports the recommendations of an extended primary series of COVID-19 vaccination in immunocompromised persons.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
The D Gene in CDR H3 Determines a Public Class of Human Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2
by
Meng Yuan and Ian A. Wilson
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050467 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Public antibody responses have been found against many infectious agents. Structural convergence of public antibodies is usually determined by immunoglobulin V genes. Recently, a human antibody public class against SARS-CoV-2 was reported, where the D gene (IGHD3-22) encodes a common YYDxxG motif in
[...] Read more.
Public antibody responses have been found against many infectious agents. Structural convergence of public antibodies is usually determined by immunoglobulin V genes. Recently, a human antibody public class against SARS-CoV-2 was reported, where the D gene (IGHD3-22) encodes a common YYDxxG motif in heavy-chain complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR H3), which determines specificity for the receptor-binding domain (RBD). In this review, we discuss the isolation, structural characterization, and genetic analyses of this class of antibodies, which have been isolated from various cohorts of COVID-19 convalescents and vaccinees. All eleven YYDxxG antibodies with available structures target the SARS-CoV-2 RBD in a similar binding mode, where the CDR H3 dominates the interaction with antigen. The antibodies target a conserved site on the RBD that does not overlap with the receptor-binding site, but their particular angle of approach results in direct steric hindrance to receptor binding, which enables both neutralization potency and breadth. We also review the properties of CDR H3-dominant antibodies that target other human viruses. Overall, unlike most public antibodies, which are identified by their V gene usage, this newly discovered public class of YYDxxG antibodies is dominated by a D-gene-encoded motif and uncovers further opportunities for germline-targeting vaccine design.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Antibodies and Vaccines)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Severity of Omicron Subvariants and Vaccine Impact in Catalonia, Spain
by
Víctor López de Rioja, Luca Basile, Aida Perramon-Malavez, Érica Martínez-Solanas, Daniel López, Sergio Medina Maestro, Ermengol Coma, Francesc Fina, Clara Prats, Jacobo Mendioroz Peña and Enric Alvarez-Lacalle
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050466 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the current COVID-19 landscape dominated by Omicron subvariants, understanding the timing and efficacy of vaccination against emergent lineages is crucial for planning future vaccination campaigns, yet detailed studies stratified by subvariant, vaccination timing, and age groups are scarce. This retrospective study analyzed
[...] Read more.
In the current COVID-19 landscape dominated by Omicron subvariants, understanding the timing and efficacy of vaccination against emergent lineages is crucial for planning future vaccination campaigns, yet detailed studies stratified by subvariant, vaccination timing, and age groups are scarce. This retrospective study analyzed COVID-19 cases from December 2021 to January 2023 in Catalonia, Spain, focusing on vulnerable populations affected by variants BA.1, BA.2, BA.5, and BQ.1 and including two national booster campaigns. Our database includes detailed information such as dates of diagnosis, hospitalization and death, last vaccination, and cause of death, among others. We evaluated the impact of vaccination on disease severity by age, variant, and vaccination status, finding that recent vaccination significantly mitigated severity across all Omicron subvariants, although efficacy waned six months post-vaccination, except for BQ.1, which showed more stable levels. Unvaccinated individuals had higher hospitalization and mortality rates. Our results highlight the importance of periodic vaccination to reduce severe outcomes, which are influenced by variant and vaccination timing. Although the seasonality of COVID-19 is uncertain, our analysis suggests the potential benefit of annual vaccination in populations >60 years old, probably in early fall, if COVID-19 eventually exhibits a major peak similar to other respiratory viruses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 and Vaccination Strategies in Global Health)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
New Onset and Exacerbation of Autoimmune Bullous Dermatosis Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review
by
Po-Chien Wu, I-Hsin Huang, Ching-Ya Wang and Ching-Chi Chi
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050465 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Cases of autoimmune bullous dermatosis (AIBD) have been reported following COVID-19 vaccination. Objective: We aimed to provide an overview of clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of AIBDs following COVID-19 vaccination. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and searched the Embase, Cochrane Library,
[...] Read more.
Background: Cases of autoimmune bullous dermatosis (AIBD) have been reported following COVID-19 vaccination. Objective: We aimed to provide an overview of clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of AIBDs following COVID-19 vaccination. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and searched the Embase, Cochrane Library, and Medline databases from their inception to 27 March 2024. We included all studies reporting ≥ 1 patient who developed new-onset AIBD or experienced flare of AIBD following at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine. Results: We included 98 studies with 229 patients in the new-onset group and 216 in the flare group. Among the new-onset cases, bullous pemphigoid (BP) was the most frequently reported subtype. Notably, mRNA vaccines were commonly associated with the development of AIBD. Regarding the flare group, pemphigus was the most frequently reported subtype, with the mRNA vaccines being the predominant vaccine type. The onset of AIBD ranged from 1 to 123 days post-vaccination, with most patients displaying favorable outcomes and showing improvement or resolution from 1 week to 8 months after treatment initiation. Conclusions: Both new-onset AIBD and exacerbation of pre-existing AIBD may occur following COVID-19 vaccination. Healthcare practitioners should be alert, and post-vaccination monitoring may be essential.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
Open AccessArticle
Longitudinal Analysis of Humoral and Cellular Immune Response up to 6 Months after SARS-CoV-2 BA.5/BF.7/XBB Breakthrough Infection and BA.5/BF.7-XBB Reinfection
by
Xun Wang, Meng Zhang, Kaifeng Wei, Chen Li, Jinghui Yang, Shujun Jiang, Chaoyue Zhao, Xiaoyu Zhao, Rui Qiao, Yuchen Cui, Yanjia Chen, Jiayan Li, Guonan Cai, Changyi Liu, Jizhen Yu, Wenhong Zhang, Faren Xie, Pengfei Wang and Yanliang Zhang
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050464 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The rapid mutation of SARS-CoV-2 has led to multiple rounds of large-scale breakthrough infection and reinfection worldwide. However, the dynamic changes of humoral and cellular immunity responses to several subvariants after infection remain unclear. In our study, a 6-month longitudinal immune response evaluation
[...] Read more.
The rapid mutation of SARS-CoV-2 has led to multiple rounds of large-scale breakthrough infection and reinfection worldwide. However, the dynamic changes of humoral and cellular immunity responses to several subvariants after infection remain unclear. In our study, a 6-month longitudinal immune response evaluation was conducted on 118 sera and 50 PBMC samples from 49 healthy individuals who experienced BA.5/BF.7/XBB breakthrough infection or BA.5/BF.7-XBB reinfection. By studying antibody response, memory B cell, and IFN-γ secreting CD4+/CD8+ T cell response to several SARS-CoV-2 variants, we observed that each component of immune response exhibited distinct kinetics. Either BA.5/BF.7/XBB breakthrough infection or BA.5/BF.7-XBB reinfection induces relatively high level of binding and neutralizing antibody titers against Omicron subvariants at an early time point, which rapidly decreases over time. Most of the individuals at 6 months post-breakthrough infection completely lost their neutralizing activities against BQ.1.1, CH.1.1, BA.2.86, JN.1 and XBB subvariants. Individuals with BA.5/BF.7-XBB reinfection exhibit immune imprinting shifting and recall pre-existing BA.5/BF.7 neutralization antibodies. In the BA.5 breakthrough infection group, the frequency of BA.5 and XBB.1.16-RBD specific memory B cells, resting memory B cells, and intermediate memory B cells gradually increased over time. On the other hand, the frequency of IFN-γ secreting CD4+/CD8+ T cells induced by WT/BA.5/XBB.1.16 spike trimer remains stable over time. Overall, our research indicates that individuals with breakthrough infection have rapidly declining antibody levels but have a relatively stable cellular immunity that can provide some degree of protection from future exposure to new antigens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of B Cells and Antibodies against Infectious Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Enhancing COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among Tribal Communities: A Case Study on Program Implementation Experiences from Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh States, India
by
Ankita Meghani, Manjula Sharma, Tanya Singh, Sourav Ghosh Dastidar, Veena Dhawan, Natasha Kanagat, Anil Gupta, Anumegha Bhatnagar, Kapil Singh, Jessica C. Shearer and Gopal Krishna Soni
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050463 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tribal populations in India have health care challenges marked by limited access due to geographical distance, historical isolation, cultural differences, and low social stratification, and that result in weaker health indicators compared to the general population. During the pandemic, Tribal districts consistently reported
[...] Read more.
Tribal populations in India have health care challenges marked by limited access due to geographical distance, historical isolation, cultural differences, and low social stratification, and that result in weaker health indicators compared to the general population. During the pandemic, Tribal districts consistently reported lower COVID-19 vaccination coverage than non-Tribal districts. We assessed the MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity (the project) strategy, which aimed to increase access to and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among Tribal populations in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand using the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance framework. We designed a qualitative explanatory case study and conducted 90 focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with Tribal populations, community-based nongovernmental organizations that worked with district health authorities to implement the interventions, and other stakeholders such as government and community groups. The active involvement of community leaders, targeted counseling, community gatherings, and door-to-door visits appeared to increase vaccine awareness and assuage concerns about its safety and efficacy. Key adaptations such as conducting evening vaccine awareness activities, holding vaccine sessions at flexible times and sites, and modifying messaging for booster doses appeared to encourage vaccine uptake among Tribal populations. While we used project resources to mitigate financial and supply constraints where they arose, sustaining long-term uptake of project interventions appears dependent on continued funding and ongoing political support.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequality in Immunization 2024)
Open AccessArticle
The Burden of Herpes Zoster on Hospital Admissions: A Retrospective Analysis in the Years of 2015–2021 from the Abruzzo Region, Italy
by
Piera Scampoli, Giuseppe Di Martino, Fabrizio Cedrone, Camillo Odio, Pamela Di Giovanni, Ferdinando Romano and Tommaso Staniscia
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050462 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) is a disease caused by the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). Clinical reactivation, herpes zoster, takes place in 10–20% of subjects who contracted the primary infection, with a higher risk of developing zoster increasing proportionally with
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) is a disease caused by the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). Clinical reactivation, herpes zoster, takes place in 10–20% of subjects who contracted the primary infection, with a higher risk of developing zoster increasing proportionally with age, especially after 50 years of age. HZ is a common clinical problem, particularly among patients aged over 50 years and immunocompromised patients. Immunocompromised patients and adults could present an atypical and more severe course. In addition, they are at greater risk of complications. For this reason, it is important to understand the real burden of the disease and to identify the subjects who are at higher risk of HZ and its complications, also to direct preventive strategies at the right targets. The aim of the present study is to analyze HZ-related hospitalization trends in Abruzzo in the period of 2015–2021. (2) Methods: Data related to hospital admissions were extracted from the hospital discharge records (HDRs) of the whole region, considering all admissions during the years of 2015–2021. The trends in hospital admissions and length of stay were evaluated and analyzed. (3) Results: A total of 768 hospital discharges with a diagnosis of herpes zoster were registered in Abruzzo during the 7-year study period. During the study period, an increasing trend was observed from the year 2015 to the year 2017, ranging from 8.19 cases/100,000 to 11.5 cases/100,000 (APC (Annual percentage change) +20.8%; 95%CI −2.3; 47.6). After the year 2017, a significantly decreasing trend was observed, reaching 5.46 cases/100,000 in the year 2021 (APC −18.4%; 95%CI −31.5; −12.0). Across the entire study period, an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of −7.0% (95%CI −13.0; −1.3) was observed. (4) Conclusions: Despite the trend of a reduction in hospitalizations, this study highlights that HZ continues to have a great impact on public health. So, it is important to update recommendations for the use of the already available HZ vaccine and to implement new strategies to increase awareness of the prevention of the disease.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Varicella and Zoster Vaccination)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Bacterial Meningitis Epidemic in Banalia in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2021
by
Andre Arsene Bita Fouda, Anderson Latt, Abdoulaye Sinayoko, Franck Fortune Roland Mboussou, Lorenzo Pezzoli, Katya Fernandez, Clement Lingani, Berthe Miwanda, Dorothée Bulemfu, Francis Baelongandi, Patrick Mbenga Likita, Marie-José Kikoo Bora, Marcel Sabiti, Gervais Leon Folefack Tengomo, Eugène Kabambi Kabangu, Guy Kalambayi Kabamba, Issifou Alassani, Muhamed-Kheir Taha, Ado Mpia Bwaka, Charles Shey Wiysonge and Benido Impoumaadd
Show full author list
remove
Hide full author list
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050461 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: The Banalia health zone in the Democratic Republic of Congo reported a meningitis epidemic in 2021 that evolved outside the epidemic season. We assessed the effects of the meningitis epidemic response. Methods: The standard case definition was used to identify cases. Care
[...] Read more.
Background: The Banalia health zone in the Democratic Republic of Congo reported a meningitis epidemic in 2021 that evolved outside the epidemic season. We assessed the effects of the meningitis epidemic response. Methods: The standard case definition was used to identify cases. Care was provided to 2651 in-patients, with 8% of them laboratory tested, and reactive vaccination was conducted. To assess the effects of reactive vaccination and treatment with ceftriaxone, a statistical analysis was performed. Results: Overall, 2662 suspected cases of meningitis with 205 deaths were reported. The highest number of cases occurred in the 30–39 years age group (927; 38.5%). Ceftriaxone contributed to preventing deaths with a case fatality rate that decreased from 70.4% before to 7.7% after ceftriaxone was introduced (p = 0.001). Neisseria meningitidis W was isolated, accounting for 47/57 (82%), of which 92% of the strains belonged to the clonal complex 11. Reactive vaccination of individuals in Banalia aged 1–19 years with a meningococcal multivalent conjugate (ACWY) vaccine (Menactra®) coverage of 104.6% resulted in an 82% decline in suspected meningitis cases (incidence rate ratio, 0.18; 95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.80; p = 0.041). Conclusion: Despite late detection (two months) and reactive vaccination four months after crossing the epidemic threshold, interventions implemented in Banalia contributed to the control of the epidemic.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Coverage and Safety in Immunization Programs)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
β-Catenin in Dendritic Cells Negatively Regulates CD8 T Cell Immune Responses through the Immune Checkpoint Molecule Tim-3
by
Chunmei Fu, Jie Wang, Tianle Ma, Congcong Yin, Li Zhou, Björn E. Clausen, Qing-Sheng Mi and Aimin Jiang
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050460 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that β-catenin in dendritic cells (DCs) serves as a key mediator in promoting both CD4 and CD8 T cell tolerance, although the mechanisms underlying how β-catenin exerts its functions remain incompletely understood. Here, we report that activation of β-catenin
[...] Read more.
Recent studies have demonstrated that β-catenin in dendritic cells (DCs) serves as a key mediator in promoting both CD4 and CD8 T cell tolerance, although the mechanisms underlying how β-catenin exerts its functions remain incompletely understood. Here, we report that activation of β-catenin leads to the up-regulation of inhibitory molecule T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) in type 1 conventional DCs (cDC1s). Using a cDC1-targeted vaccine model with anti-DEC-205 engineered to express the melanoma antigen human gp100 (anti-DEC-205-hgp100), we demonstrated that CD11c-β-cateninactive mice exhibited impaired cross-priming and memory responses of gp100-specific CD8 T (Pmel-1) cells upon immunization with anti-DEC-205-hgp100. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that β-catenin in DCs negatively regulated transcription programs for effector function and proliferation of primed Pmel-1 cells, correlating with suppressed CD8 T cell immunity in CD11c-β-cateninactive mice. Further experiments showed that treating CD11c-β-cateninactive mice with an anti-Tim-3 antibody upon anti-DEC-205-hgp100 vaccination led to restored cross-priming and memory responses of gp100-specific CD8 T cells, suggesting that anti-Tim-3 treatment likely synergizes with DC vaccines to improve their efficacy. Indeed, treating B16F10-bearing mice with DC vaccines using anti-DEC-205-hgp100 in combination with anti-Tim-3 treatment resulted in significantly reduced tumor growth compared with treatment with the DC vaccine alone. Taken together, we identified the β-catenin/Tim-3 axis as a potentially novel mechanism to inhibit anti-tumor CD8 T cell immunity and that combination immunotherapy of a DC-targeted vaccine with anti-Tim-3 treatment leads to improved anti-tumor efficacy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dendritic Cells (DCs) and Cancer Immunotherapy)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessReview
From Detection to Protection: Antibodies and Their Crucial Role in Diagnosing and Combatting SARS-CoV-2
by
Anoop Kumar, Prajna Tripathi, Prashant Kumar, Ritu Shekhar and Rajiv Pathak
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050459 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Understanding the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is crucial to comprehending disease progression and the significance of vaccine and therapeutic development. The emergence of highly contagious variants poses a significant challenge to humoral immunity, underscoring the necessity of grasping
[...] Read more.
Understanding the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is crucial to comprehending disease progression and the significance of vaccine and therapeutic development. The emergence of highly contagious variants poses a significant challenge to humoral immunity, underscoring the necessity of grasping the intricacies of specific antibodies. This review emphasizes the pivotal role of antibodies in shaping immune responses and their implications for diagnosing, preventing, and treating SARS-CoV-2 infection. It delves into the kinetics and characteristics of the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 and explores current antibody-based diagnostics, discussing their strengths, clinical utility, and limitations. Furthermore, we underscore the therapeutic potential of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, discussing various antibody-based therapies such as monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, anti-cytokines, convalescent plasma, and hyperimmunoglobulin-based therapies. Moreover, we offer insights into antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, emphasizing the significance of neutralizing antibodies in order to confer immunity to SARS-CoV-2, along with emerging variants of concern (VOCs) and circulating Omicron subvariants. We also highlight challenges in the field, such as the risks of antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, and shed light on the challenges associated with the original antigenic sin (OAS) effect and long COVID. Overall, this review intends to provide valuable insights, which are crucial to advancing sensitive diagnostic tools, identifying efficient antibody-based therapeutics, and developing effective vaccines to combat the evolving threat of SARS-CoV-2 variants on a global scale.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Vaccination Coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean
by
Ignacio E. Castro-Aguirre, Dan Alvarez, Marcela Contreras, Silas P. Trumbo, Oscar J. Mujica, Daniel Salas Peraza and Martha Velandia-González
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050458 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Routine vaccination coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean declined prior to and during the coronavirus pandemic. We assessed the pandemic’s impact on national coverage levels and analyzed whether financial and inequality indicators, immunization policies, and pandemic policies were associated with changes
[...] Read more.
Background: Routine vaccination coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean declined prior to and during the coronavirus pandemic. We assessed the pandemic’s impact on national coverage levels and analyzed whether financial and inequality indicators, immunization policies, and pandemic policies were associated with changes in national and regional coverage levels. Methodology: We compared first- and third-dose coverage of diphtheria–pertussis–tetanus-containing vaccine (DTPcv) with predicted coverages using time series forecast modeling for 39 LAC countries and territories. Data were from the PAHO/WHO/UNICEF Joint Reporting Form. A secondary analysis of factors hypothesized to affect coverages during the pandemic was also performed. Results: In total, 31 of 39 countries and territories (79%) had greater-than-predicted declines in DTPcv1 and DTPcv3 coverage during the pandemic, with 9 and 12 of these, respectively, falling outside the 95% confidence interval. Within-country income inequality (i.e., Gini coefficient) was associated with significant declines in DTPcv1 coverage, and cross-country income inequality was associated with declines in DTPcv1 and DTPcv3 coverages. Observed absolute and relative inequality gaps in DTPcv1 and DTPcv3 coverage between extreme country quintiles of income inequality (i.e., Q1 vs. Q5) were accentuated in 2021, as compared with the 2019 observed and 2021 predicted values. We also observed a trend between school closures and greater-than-predicted declines in DTPcv3 coverage that approached statistical significance (p = 0.06). Conclusion: The pandemic exposed vaccination inequities in LAC and significantly impacted coverage levels in many countries. New strategies are needed to reattain high coverage levels.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequality in Immunization 2024)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Novel Multiepitope Fusion Antigen as a Vaccine Candidate for the Prevention of Enterotoxigenic E. coli-Induced Calf Diarrhea
by
Haoyun Zhang, Xinwei Yuan, Yanfei He, Yingyu Chen, Changmin Hu, Jianguo Chen, Lei Zhang, Xi Chen and Aizhen Guo
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050457 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Calf diarrhea caused by enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) poses an enormous economic challenge in the cattle industry. Fimbriae and enterotoxin are crucial virulence factors and vaccine targets of ETEC. Since these proteins have complicated components with large molecular masses, the development of vaccines
[...] Read more.
Calf diarrhea caused by enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) poses an enormous economic challenge in the cattle industry. Fimbriae and enterotoxin are crucial virulence factors and vaccine targets of ETEC. Since these proteins have complicated components with large molecular masses, the development of vaccines by directly expressing these potential targets is cumbersome Therefore, this study aimed to develop a multiepitope fusion antigen designated as MEFA by integrating major epitopes of FanC and Fim41a subunits and a toxoid epitope of STa into the F17G framework. The 3D modeling predicted that the MEFA protein displayed the epitopes from these four antigens on its surface, demonstrating the desired structural characteristics. Then, the MEFA protein was subsequently expressed and purified for mouse immunization. Following that, our homemade ELISA showed that the mouse antiserum had a consistent increase in polyclonal antibody levels with the highest titer of 1:217 to MEFA. Furthermore, the western blot assay demonstrated that this anti-MEFA serum could react with all four antigens. Further, this antiserum exhibited inhibition on ETEC adhesion to HCT-8 cells with inhibitory rates of 92.8%, 84.3%, and 87.9% against F17+, F5+, and F41+ ETEC strains, respectively. Additionally, the stimulatory effect of STa toxin on HCT-8 cells was decreased by approximately 75.3% by anti-MEFA serum. This study demonstrates that the MEFA protein would be an antigen candidate for novel subunit vaccines for preventing ETEC-induced diarrhea in cattle.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Vaccines)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
A Proof-of-Concept Study to Develop a Peptide-Based Vaccine against Salmon Lice Infestation in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.)
by
Amritha Johny, Pedro Ilardi, Rolf Erik Olsen, Bjørg Egelandsdal and Erik Slinde
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050456 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Proteins present in blood samples from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) infected with salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) were analyzed using liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry. Bioinformatic analyses revealed 1820 proteins, of which 58 were assigned to lice. Among these, peroxiredoxin-2, an
[...] Read more.
Proteins present in blood samples from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) infected with salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) were analyzed using liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry. Bioinformatic analyses revealed 1820 proteins, of which 58 were assigned to lice. Among these, peroxiredoxin-2, an antioxidant protein, was found relevant with respect to blood feeding of the parasite. The three-dimensional structure analysis of the protein revealed a surface amino acid sequence of interest. A 13-amino-acid peptide was selected as a potential antigen due to its predicted solubility, antigenicity, probable non-allergenic, and non-toxic nature. This peroxiredoxin-2-derived peptide was synthesized, combined with a commercially available adjuvant, and used for vaccination. The test vaccine demonstrated a 60–70% protection rate against early-stage Lepeophtheirus salmonis infection in a challenge trial in Norway. Additionally, the vaccine was tested against salmon lice (Caligus rogercresseyi) in Chile, where a remarkable 92% reduction in the number of adult lice was observed. Thus, in combination with the selected adjuvant, the peptide showed antigenic potential, making it a suitable candidate for future vaccine development. The approach described holds promise for the development of peptide vaccines against various ectoparasites feeding on blood or skin secretions of their hosts.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Advax-SM™-Adjuvanted COBRA (H1/H3) Hemagglutinin Influenza Vaccines
by
Pedro L. Sanchez, Greiciely Andre, Anna Antipov, Nikolai Petrovsky and Ted M. Ross
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050455 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Adjuvants enhance immune responses stimulated by vaccines. To date, many seasonal influenza vaccines are not formulated with an adjuvant. In the present study, the adjuvant Advax-SM™ was combined with next generation, broadly reactive influenza hemagglutinin (HA) vaccines that were designed using a computationally
[...] Read more.
Adjuvants enhance immune responses stimulated by vaccines. To date, many seasonal influenza vaccines are not formulated with an adjuvant. In the present study, the adjuvant Advax-SM™ was combined with next generation, broadly reactive influenza hemagglutinin (HA) vaccines that were designed using a computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen (COBRA) methodology. Advax-SM™ is a novel adjuvant comprising inulin polysaccharide and CpG55.2, a TLR9 agonist. COBRA HA vaccines were combined with Advax-SM™ or a comparator squalene emulsion (SE) adjuvant and administered to mice intramuscularly. Mice vaccinated with Advax-SM™ adjuvanted COBRA HA vaccines had increased serum levels of anti-influenza IgG and IgA, high hemagglutination inhibition activity against a panel of H1N1 and H3N2 influenza viruses, and increased anti-influenza antibody secreting cells isolated from spleens. COBRA HA plus Advax-SM™ immunized mice were protected against both morbidity and mortality following viral challenge and, at postmortem, had no detectable lung viral titers or lung inflammation. Overall, the Advax-SM™-adjuvanted COBRA HA formulation provided effective protection against drifted H1N1 and H3N2 influenza viruses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Influenza Virus Vaccines)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Evolving Altruistic Attitudes towards Vaccination Post COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparative Analysis across Age Groups
by
Verena Barbieri, Christian J. Wiedermann, Stefano Lombardo, Giuliano Piccoliori, Timon Gärtner and Adolf Engl
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050454 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Altruism plays an essential role in promoting vaccine uptake, an issue that came to the fore during the COVID-19 pandemic through discussions of herd immunity and altruistic motivations. In response, the primary objective of this cross-sectional survey was to explore how altruistic attitudes
[...] Read more.
Altruism plays an essential role in promoting vaccine uptake, an issue that came to the fore during the COVID-19 pandemic through discussions of herd immunity and altruistic motivations. In response, the primary objective of this cross-sectional survey was to explore how altruistic attitudes have evolved in the post-pandemic era and to assess their effectiveness in motivating vaccination behavior in different age groups. The study aimed to elucidate changes in altruistic motivations for vaccination and their implications for public health strategies. Using a representative sample of the adult population of South Tyrol, Italy, including 1388 participants, altruism was assessed in 2023 with the scales of the Elderly Care Research Center (ECRC) and the International Personality Item Pool (IPIP) subscale of the version 5F30F-R1. Its association with demographic variables, vaccination attitudes and personal beliefs in two age groups (18–69 years, 70+ years) was analyzed. The results reveal distinct predictors of altruism across these scales and age groups, suggesting a shift in altruistic attitudes towards vaccination when comparing data from a similar survey conducted in 2021 with the 2023 results. Consequently, the use of altruism scales for different age groups is warranted. This study highlights the need for further research in this field. It concludes that while promoting altruistic behavior to increase vaccine uptake appears to be effective primarily among the younger population, emphasizing personal safety is more appropriate for encouraging vaccination among older individuals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Uptake: Insights from Behavioural and Social Sciences)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness among Patients with Psoriatic Disease: A Population-Based Study
by
Tal Gazitt, Lihi Eder, Walid Saliba, Nili Stein, Ilan Feldhamer, Arnon Dov Cohen and Devy Zisman
Vaccines 2024, 12(5), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12050453 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Limited information is available on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (psoriatic disease (PsD)). The objective of our research was to assess the effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination in preventing SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe infection in a
[...] Read more.
Limited information is available on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (psoriatic disease (PsD)). The objective of our research was to assess the effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination in preventing SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe infection in a cohort of patients with PsD and the association of immunosuppressants on SARS-CoV-2 infection-related outcomes from December 2020 to December 2021. Vaccine effectiveness was assessed in a matched nested case control study using conditional logistic regression adjusted for demographics, comorbidities and immunosuppressant use. Study outcomes included SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe COVID-19 (moderate-to-severe COVID-19-related hospitalizations or death). At least one dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine was associated with reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe COVID-19 (OR = 0.41 (95% CI, 0.38–0.43) and OR = 0.15 (95% CI, 0.11–0.20), respectively). A more significant effect was found among patients who received three vaccines doses compared with those who did not receive any (OR (for positive SARS-CoV-2) = 0.13 (95% CI, 0.12–0.15) and OR (for severe disease) = 0.02 (0.01–0.05)). Etanercept and methotrexate were associated with higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 positivity (1.58 (1.19–2.10), p = 0.001 and 1.25 (1.03–1.51), p = 0.03, respectively). In conclusion, our results show that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are effective in reducing both infection and severe COVID-19-related outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Vaccines Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Diseases, IJMS, Microbiology Research, Pathogens, Vaccines
Advances in Human Pathogen Control—a 21st Century Challenge 2.0
Topic Editors: Jorge H. Leitão, Nitin Amdare, Joana R FelicianoDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Cells, Diseases, Healthcare, IJMS, Vaccines
Inflammation: The Cause of all Diseases 2.0
Topic Editors: Vasso Apostolopoulos, Jack Feehan, Vivek P. ChavdaDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, JCM, Pathogens, Vaccines, Viruses
Discovery and Development of Monkeypox Disease Treatments
Topic Editors: Mohd Imran, Ali A. RabaanDeadline: 31 August 2024
Topic in
Brain Sciences, Clinics and Practice, COVID, Life, Vaccines, Viruses
Multifaceted Efforts from Basic Research to Clinical Practice in Controlling COVID-19 Disease
Topic Editors: Yih-Horng Shiao, Rashi OjhaDeadline: 30 September 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Vaccines
Public Psychobehavioral Responses towards Vaccination
Guest Editor: Li Ping WongDeadline: 30 April 2024
Special Issue in
Vaccines
Novel Vaccines for Infectious Pathogens
Guest Editors: Veerupaxagouda Patil, Dhruv DesaiDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Vaccines
COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Uptake: Insights from Behavioural and Social Sciences
Guest Editor: Christian NapoliDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Vaccines
SARS-CoV-2 Variants, Vaccines, and Immune Responses
Guest Editor: Gianni Gori SavelliniDeadline: 15 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Vaccines
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Correlates and Interventions
Collection Editors: Manoj Sharma, Kavita Batra
Topical Collection in
Vaccines
Topic Advisory Panel Members’ Collection Series: Immunization and Vaccines for Infectious Diseases
Collection Editors: Shumaila Hanif, Ravinder Kumar
Topical Collection in
Vaccines
Research on Monoclonal Antibodies and Antibody Engineering
Collection Editor: Tatsuya Yamazaki