Cell-based flu vaccines offer 20% more protection
A new study found that cell-based influenza vaccines may offer superior seasonal flu prevention, providing approximately 20% greater protection than standard egg-based vaccines during the 2023/24 season. The research analyzed data from more than 100,000 vaccinated individuals across multiple age groups and risk categories.
CSL Seqirus, the manufacturer behind the study, reported that its cell-based vaccine demonstrated a consistent advantage in both pediatric and adult populations, regardless of underlying health status. These findings indicate a clear clinical benefit of cell-based vaccines over conventional egg-based formulations.
Modeling based on the study suggested that universal use of cell-based vaccines during the 2023/24 influenza season could have prevented nearly 15,000 hospitalizations in individuals under 65 years of age, underscoring their potential to substantially reduce healthcare burden. While egg-grown vaccines remain the foundation of global influenza vaccine supply, employed by most major manufacturers, companies such as CSL Seqirus and Sanofi are expanding production of cell-based and recombinant platforms. These newer technologies help prevent the antigenic drift that can occur when influenza strains adapt to propagation in eggs, a long-standing issue associated with reduced antigenic match and lower vaccine effectiveness.
Cell-based influenza vaccines are priced higher than those produced in embryonated eggs. This difference reflects the considerable capital investment required for bioreactors and large-scale sterile manufacturing infrastructure. Operating costs are higher, and the yields of influenza vaccine production in cell cultures remain somewhat lower than those achieved in eggs, although this gap has been narrowing with ongoing technological advancements.
