Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV and Other Vaccines: Immunogenicity Parameters and Protection, 3rd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

During the assessment and licensing of novel vaccines and in the post-licensure follow up, it is critical to have reliable immunogenicity-testing methods that relate well to protection. The need for reliable immunogenicity criteria became apparent in the preparation for the potential pandemic threat posed by influenza A H5N1 in 2006, when great intra- and interlaboratory variations were seen for hemagglutinin inhibition and microneutralization tests, and the need for a centralized standard was acknowledged by the WHO and NIBSC.

In the case of SARS-CoV-2, this remains a critical issue, as many different antibody tests have been developed urgently, but with unknown correlation to real-world protection. Therefore, collaboration among different laboratories and health authorities is essential to establish standards, reduce interlaboratory variations, and establish immunogenicity correlates that can be used for licensing as well as patient care. In this Special Issue, we seek papers discussing the development of reliable immunogenicity tests that correlate with real-world protection against SARS-CoV-2, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other novel vaccines.

Sub-topics: antibody levels; cellular immunity; correlates of protection; rapid vs. laboratory antibody kits; the role of ELISA.

Dr. Zoltan Vajo
Guest Editor

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