The long-term immunogenicity of an inactivated split-virion 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 vaccine: Randomized, observer-masked, single-center clinical study

The aim of this study is to investigate the long-term immunogenicity of inactivated split-virion 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 vaccine after a single immunization. We recruited 480 adults, aged 18–60 years, for a placebo-controlled, observer-masked, single-center clinical study. We randomly assigned subjects into four groups: 15 μg, 30 μg and 45 μg of hemagglutinin (HA) dosage groups, and a placebo control group. Finally, 259 subjects completed the entire study. The rates of seroconversion and seroprotection and the geometric mean increase (GMI) fulfilled the criteria of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) for influenza vaccine for 180 days after vaccination in all three dosage groups. However, the seroprotection rates of all dosage groups were below 70% at day 360 post vaccination, while the seroconversion rates and the GMI continued to meet the licensure criteria at this time point. In conclusion, a single dose of 15 μg HA vaccine could induce a protective immune response persisting for at least six months in adults. This study could be beneficial for the future development of influenza vaccines conferring long-term immunity.

▸ We recruited 480 adults (aged 18–60 years) administered with different doses of influenza A H1N1 vaccine without adjuvant. ▸ We collected and analyzed the serum samples on day 28, 90, 180 and 360 post vaccination. ▸ Although a single dose of vaccine could induce long-term immunity persisting for at least six months protection waned significantly one year after vaccine suggesting the need for a booster vaccine.