Influenza Virus Vaccine for the 2011-2012 Season Announced
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) met in Bethesda, Md., on Feb. 25, 2011, to select the influenza viruses for the composition of the influenza vaccine for the 2011-2012 U.S. influenza season. During this meeting, the advisory committee reviewed and evaluated the surveillance data related to epidemiology and antigenic characteristics of recent influenza isolates, serological responses to 2010-2011 vaccines, and the availability of candidate strains and reagents.
The committee recommended that vaccines to be used in the 2011-2012 influenza season in the U.S. contain the following:
- A/California/7/09 (H1N1)-like virus*
- A/Perth /16/2009 (H3N2)-like virus
- B/Brisbane/60/2008-like virus
*A/California/7/09 (H1N1)-like virus is the pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza virus
This years vaccine for the United States includes the same viruses that were used for the 2010-2011 influenza season and the influenza vaccine composition is identical to that recommended by the World Health Organization on Feb. 17, 2011, for the Northern Hemisphere's 2011-2012 influenza season.
-
Canada Faces Rising Measles Cases: Public Health Urges Vaccination Amid Growing Threat
March 6th 2025Measles cases in Canada are rising, with 227 infections reported in early 2025. Public health officials urge vaccination to prevent outbreaks, severe complications, and further community transmission.
Surging Whooping Cough Cases Highlight the Importance of Vaccination
March 6th 2025Experts like Michael Glazier, MD, warn that waning immunity, declining vaccination rates, and increased transmission are driving this resurgence. Vaccination remains the best defense, with pediatricians urging timely immunization to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further outbreaks.
Measles Outbreak Sparks APIC’s Urgent Call for Stronger Vaccine Policies
March 4th 2025The recent measles-related death in Texas has reignited fears about the consequences of declining vaccination rates and misinformation. Once declared eliminated in the US, measles is resurging with over 150 cases and climbing. APIC warns: this crisis is preventable—but only if we act now.
