Kinetic analysis and evaluation of the mechanisms involved in the resolution of experimental nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae-induced otitis media after transcutaneous immunization

► Transcutaneous immunization with chimV4+ dmLT resolved ongoing NTHI-induced experimental OM. ► Significant reduction in signs of OM, NTHI concentration and mucosal biofilms in the middle ear was achieved. ► Activated DCs, polyfunctional T-cells and host defense peptide contributed to rapid resolution. ► Immunogen-specific IgG in middle ear fluids also contributed to eradication of NTHI. ► Transcutaneous immunization is a simple strategy to induce efficacious immune responses.