Vaccines

12 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enabling Factors, Barriers, and Perceptions of Pneumococcal Vaccination Strategy Implementation: A Qualitative Study

by Junjie Huang, Fung-Yu Mak, Yuet-Yan Wong, Samantha Ko, Marc K. C. Chong, Zixin Wang, Kam-Lun Hon, Eliza L. Y. Wong, Eng-Kiong Yeoh and Martin C. S. Wong

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071164 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2006

Abstract

Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, particularly in the elderly population. With the implementation of the Government Vaccination Programme (GVP) and the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS), enabling factors and barriers in service provider scheme participation and [...] Read more.

Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, particularly in the elderly population. With the implementation of the Government Vaccination Programme (GVP) and the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS), enabling factors and barriers in service provider scheme participation and vaccination uptake were examined in 32 interviews with doctors and 16 interviews with vaccine recipients. Interview data were analysed in NVivo 11.0 with reference to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the REAIM Framework to develop codes and themes. Barriers to pneumococcal vaccination uptake included concerns on vaccine efficacy and poor understanding of the disease and vaccine schemes, whilst service provider participation was hindered by ill-defined parameters for patient eligibility and time, location, and logistical constraints. Enabling factors to improve intervention implementation were involvement of the government and physicians to encourage participation, clarifying eligibility criteria, and improving individual knowledge of IPD and vaccination schemes. As participation rates in the GVP and VSS remains low in Hong Kong, efforts concentrating on health promotion strategies encouraging pneumococcal vaccination amongst the elderly population are recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Intention against the COVID-19 Pandemic)

11 pages, 1299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of the Antibody and Interferon-Gamma Release Response after a Second COVID-19 Booster Vaccination

by Katharina Grikscheit, Holger F. Rabenau, Zahra Ghodratian, Marek Widera, Alexander Wilhelm, Tuna Toptan Grabmair, Sebastian Hoehl, Emily Layer, Fabian Helfritz and Sandra Ciesek

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1163; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071163 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2749

Abstract

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants prompted countries to call for accelerated booster vaccinations to limit disease and transmission. Here, we characterized correlates of protection over time after the second booster or after Omicron BA.1 infection comparing variants of concern (VOCs). Sera from [...] Read more.

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants prompted countries to call for accelerated booster vaccinations to limit disease and transmission. Here, we characterized correlates of protection over time after the second booster or after Omicron BA.1 infection comparing variants of concern (VOCs). Sera from subjects before and two and seven weeks after the second booster or after Omicron infection were examined for the level of Spike receptor-binding-domain (RBD)-specific antibodies. Furthermore, neutralizing antibodies (nABs) were characterized in in vitro neutralization assays comparing the variants of concern Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 against the ancestral strain B.1. Here, the second booster resulted in an increase in anti-RBD-IgG-antibodies, remaining nearly constant over time, accompanied by an increase in nABs against B.1 and the VOCs Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 and BA.2. However, compared to B.1, the neutralizing capacity against the Omicron subvariants remained low and was limited after the second booster vaccination. This indicates that antibody-mediated protection against infection with this VOC is unlikely, as evidenced by the fact that three individuals of our study cohort became infected with Omicron BA.1 after the second booster. T cell activation was measured by interferon-gamma release assays in a subgroup of subjects and was increased in all subjects tested after the second booster vaccination, correlating with the amount of Spike-specific antibodies. In subjects with Omicron BA.1 breakthrough infection, a significant increase in nABs to all VOCs studied was observed independently of booster vaccinations. Taken together, our data indicate that a second booster or Omicron BA.1 infection mediate a substantial increase in anti-Spike IgG antibodies; however, infection with Omicron BA.1 induced a stronger increase in neutralizing antibodies against the different VOCs Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coronavirus: Vaccines and Other Therapeutics)

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8 pages, 1586 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Have a Very High Risk of Ineffective Response to the BNT162b2 Vaccine

by Andrea Galitzia, Luca Barabino, Roberta Murru, Giovanni Caocci, Marianna Greco, Giancarlo Angioni, Olga Mulas, Sara Oppi, Stefania Massidda, Alessandro Costa and Giorgio La Nasa

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071162 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1712

Abstract

Patients with CLL have high rates of either severe disease or death from COVID-19 and a low response rate after COVID-19 vaccination has been reported. We conducted a single-center study with the main objective to evaluate the immunogenicity of the BNT1162b2 mRNA vaccines [...] Read more.

Patients with CLL have high rates of either severe disease or death from COVID-19 and a low response rate after COVID-19 vaccination has been reported. We conducted a single-center study with the main objective to evaluate the immunogenicity of the BNT1162b2 mRNA vaccines in 42 patients affected by CLL with the assessment of antibody response after the second and the third dose. After the second dose of vaccine, 13 patients (30%) showed an antibody response. The presence of hypogammaglobulinemia and the use of steroids or IVIG were the main factors associated with poor response. After the third dose, 5/27 (18%) patients showed an antibody response while in non-responders to the second dose, only 1 patient (4%) showed an elicitation of the immune response by the third dose, with no statistically significant difference. Our data, despite the small size of our cohort, demonstrate that patients with CLL have a low rate of effective response to the BNT162b2 vaccine. However, the effective role of a subsequent dose is still unclear, highlighting the need for alternative methods of immunization in this particularly fragile group of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Understanding of Immune Response after COVID-19 Vaccination)

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14 pages, 4439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Prognosis and Therapeutic Response Model of Immune-Related lncRNA Pairs in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

by Gang Wang, Panhong Liu, Jiangfeng Li, Ke Jin, Xiangyi Zheng and Liping Xie

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1161; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071161 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1871

Abstract

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of renal carcinoma. It is particularly important to accurately judge the prognosis of patients. Since most tumor prediction models depend on the specific expression level of related genes, a better model therefore [...] Read more.

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of renal carcinoma. It is particularly important to accurately judge the prognosis of patients. Since most tumor prediction models depend on the specific expression level of related genes, a better model therefore needs to be constructed. To provide an immune-related lncRNA (irlncRNAs) tumor prognosis model that is independent of the specific gene expression levels, we first downloaded and sorted out the data on ccRCC in the TCGA database and screened irlncRNAs using co-expression analysis and then obtained the differently expressed irlncRNA (DEirlncRNA) pairs by means of univariate analysis. In addition, we modified LASSO penalized regression. Subsequently, the ROC curve was drawn, and we compared the area under the curve, calculated the Akaike information standard value of the 5-year receiver operating characteristic curve, and determined the cut-off point to establish the best model to distinguish the high- or low-disease-risk group of ccRCC. Subsequently, we reassessed the model from the perspectives of survival, clinic-pathological characteristics, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, chemotherapeutics efficacy, and immunosuppressed biomarkers. A total of 17 DEirlncRNAs pairs (AL031710.1|AC104984.5, AC020907.4|AC127-24.4,AC091185.1|AC005104.1, AL513218.1|AC079015.1, AC104564.3|HOXB-AS3, AC003070.1|LINC01355, SEMA6A-AS1|CR936218.1, AL513327.1|AS005785.1, AC084876.1|AC009704.2, IGFL2-AS1|PRDM16-DT, AC011462.4|MMP25-AS1, AL662844.3I|TGB2-AS1, ARHGAP27P1|AC116914.2, AC093788.1|AC007098.1, MCF2L-AS1|AC093001.1, SMIM25|AC008870.2, and AC027796.4|LINC00893) were identified, all of which were included in the Cox regression model. Using the cut-off point, we can better distinguish patients according to different factors, such as survival status, invasive clinic-pathological features, tumor immune infiltration, whether they are sensitive to chemotherapy or not, and expression of immunosuppressive biomarkers. We constructed the irlncRNA model by means of pairing, which can better eliminate the dependence on the expression level of the target genes. In other words, the signature established by pairing irlncRNA regardless of expression levels showed promising clinical prediction value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Immune Escape and Immunotherapy)

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14 pages, 1096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence and Rapid Neutralizing Antibody Decline among Agricultural Workers in Rural Guatemala, June 2020–March 2021

by Chelsea Iwamoto, Kelsey E. Lesteberg, Molly M. Lamb, Diva M. Calvimontes, Kejun Guo, Bradley S. Barrett, Kaylee L. Mickens, Lindsey M. Duca, Jose Monzon, Anna N. Chard, Gerber Guzman, Edgar Barrios, Neudy Rojop, Kareen Arias, Melissa Gomez, Claudia Paiz, Guillermo Antonio Bolanos, Kathryn M. Edwards, Emily Zielinski Gutierrez, Eduardo Azziz-Baumgartner, Edwin J. Asturias, Mario L. Santiago, J. David Beckham and Daniel Olson Show full author list Hide full author list

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071160 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2568

Abstract

Essential agricultural workers work under occupational conditions that may increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and transmission. Data from an agricultural worker cohort in Guatemala, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG (anti-N IgG) testing were used to estimate past infections and analyze risk factors associated [...] Read more.

Essential agricultural workers work under occupational conditions that may increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and transmission. Data from an agricultural worker cohort in Guatemala, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG (anti-N IgG) testing were used to estimate past infections and analyze risk factors associated with seropositivity at enrollment and association with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The stability of neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses were assessed in a subset of participants. The adjusted relative risk (aRR) for seroprevalence at enrollment was estimated accounting for correlations within worksites. At enrollment, 616 (46.2%) of 1334 (93.2%) participants had anti-N IgG results indicating prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. A cough ≤ 10 days prior to enrollment (aRR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.13–1.46) and working as a packer (aRR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.67–2.38) or packing manager within the plants (aRR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.36–2.43) were associated with increased risk of seropositivity. COVID-19 incidence density among seronegative workers was 2.3/100 Person-Years (P-Y), higher than seropositive workers (0.4/100 P-Y). Most workers with follow-up NAb testing (65/77, 84%) exhibited a 95% average decrease in NAb titers in <6 months. While participants seropositive at baseline were less likely to experience a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection during follow-up, NAb titers rapidly waned, underscoring the need for multipronged COVID-19 prevention strategies in the workplace, including vaccination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Global Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Serology)

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10 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vaccination Intention against COVID-19 among the Unvaccinated in Jordan during the Early Phase of the Vaccination Drive: A Cross-Sectional Survey

by Ilias Mahmud, Mahmudul Hassan Al Imam, Divya Vinnakota, Khalid A. Kheirallah, Mahmoud F. Jaber, Adil Abalkhail, Ibrahim Alasqah, Thamer Alslamah and Russell Kabir

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071159 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2334

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the intention and predictors of accepting the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine in Jordan. Method: A national-level online survey was conducted among adults (≥18 years) in Jordan between June and September 2021. Descriptive analyses were performed to report [...] Read more.

Objective: This study assessed the intention and predictors of accepting the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine in Jordan. Method: A national-level online survey was conducted among adults (≥18 years) in Jordan between June and September 2021. Descriptive analyses were performed to report vaccination intent. In addition, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done to evaluate the association between vaccination intent and its predictors. Results: A total of 2307 adults participated. Most of them (83.7%) expressed an intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Their vaccination intention was significantly (p < 0.001) associated with male gender (aOR: 2.6), residence in the Amman region (aOR: 51.8), and no history of COVID-19 infection (aOR: 6.0). In contrast, individuals aged 50-64 years (aOR: 0.2, p < 0.001), Jordanians (aOR: 0.7, p = 0.038), and those with an occupation designated as “other” (unemployed, general workers, housewives) (aOR: 0.2, p < 0.001) were less likely to have a positive vaccination intent. Among the health belief model constructs, perceived future (aOR: 2.8) and present (aOR: 5.0) susceptibility to COVID-19 infection; severity of complications (aOR: 9.9); and benefits (aOR: 100.8) were significantly (p < 0.001) associated with a higher likelihood of having a vaccination intent. On the other hand, individuals who are concerned about the efficacy (aOR: 0.2) and side effects (aOR: 0.2) of the vaccine were less likely to have a positive vaccination intent (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Despite having high rates of intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, Jordanians, older adults and housewives, general workers and unemployed individuals were less likely to be vaccinated. These findings highlight that need-based public health campaigns are necessary to ensure maximum COVID-19 vaccination uptake in Jordan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue People’s Perception on COVID-19 Vaccine and Its Accessibility)

11 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behind the Scenes of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Psychological Predictors in an Italian Community Sample

by Sofia Tagini, Agostino Brugnera, Roberta Ferrucci, Alberto Priori, Angelo Compare, Laura Parolin, Gabriella Pravettoni, Vincenzo Silani and Barbara Poletti

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071158 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1849

Abstract

Psychological variables may be crucial in favoring or discouraging health-related behaviors, including vaccine acceptance. This study aimed to extend the previous literature by outlining the psychological profile associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in a sample of Italian citizens. Between April and May 2021, [...] Read more.

Psychological variables may be crucial in favoring or discouraging health-related behaviors, including vaccine acceptance. This study aimed to extend the previous literature by outlining the psychological profile associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in a sample of Italian citizens. Between April and May 2021, 1122 Italian volunteers completed a web survey on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, also including several self-reported psychological measures. A multiple hierarchical logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the psychological variables associated with vaccine hesitancy. Low confidence in COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and safety, low collective responsibility, high complacency, and high calculation (i.e., extensive information searching, and costs–benefit estimates) predicted higher hesitancy. Our results suggest that to be effective, vaccine-related communications should be as clear, understandable, and sound as possible, preventing the spreading of misunderstandings, or even fake information, that may foster people’s insecurities and distrust. Furthermore, the advantages and necessity of vaccination, both at the individual and community-level, should be clearly emphasized. Efficacious vaccine-related communications may be crucial, not only to maintain an adequate immunity rate for COVID-19, but also to inform policymakers and public authorities in the case of possible future infectious outbreaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination and Compliance/Hesitancy)

12 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Evolution over Time and Associated Factors

by Ignacio Hernández-García, Moisés Garcés-Redondo, Joana Rodríguez-Montolio, Irantzu Bengoa-Urrengoechea, Judit Espinosa-Rueda, Carlos Aibar-Remón and Vaccine Working Group

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071154 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1450

Abstract

Our objective was to determine the influenza vaccination rate in a Spanish cohort of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Patients who attended the MS unit of the Lozano Blesa Hospital of Zaragoza between January 2015 and 2020 [...] Read more.

Our objective was to determine the influenza vaccination rate in a Spanish cohort of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Patients who attended the MS unit of the Lozano Blesa Hospital of Zaragoza between January 2015 and 2020 were included. The variables were obtained by reviewing the specialized and primary care records. Associations between receiving the vaccine in each flu season and the other variables were analyzed using bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression models. A total of 260 patients were studied, with a median age of 31 years at the time of diagnosis. A total of 62.3% (162/260) were women. Vaccination coverage ranged from 20.4% in the 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 seasons to 41.5% in the 2019–2020 season (p = 0.000). Having been vaccinated in the previous season (ORa: 16.47–390.22; p = 0.000) and receiving a vaccination recommendation from the hospital vaccination unit (ORa: 2.44–3.96; p < 0.009) were associated with being vaccinated. The coverage is in an intermediate position compared to other countries. It is necessary to improve the referral system of these patients to the hospital vaccination unit because the information obtained by this service contributed to higher vaccination rates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination and Public Health)

13 pages, 619 KiB

Open AccessReview

Past, Present and Future of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccine Use in China

by Junli Li, Jinbiao Lu, Guozhi Wang, Aihua Zhao and Miao Xu

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071157 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2724

Abstract

The BCG vaccine is prepared from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), a bacterium closely related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), which causes tuberculosis (TB). The vaccine was developed over 13 years, from 1908 to 1921, in the French Institut [...] Read more.

The BCG vaccine is prepared from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), a bacterium closely related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), which causes tuberculosis (TB). The vaccine was developed over 13 years, from 1908 to 1921, in the French Institut Pasteur by Léon Charles Albert Calmette and Jean-Marie Camille Guérin, who named the product Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG). BCG, the only licensed vaccine currently available to prevent TB, is given to infants at high risk of TB shortly after birth to protect infants and young children from pulmonary, meningeal, and disseminated TB. The BCG vaccine, one of the safest and most widely used live attenuated vaccines in the world, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary (from 1921 to 2021); its record of use in preventing TB in China is also approaching 100 years. In 2022, a new century of BCG vaccine immunization will begin. In this article, we briefly review the history of BCG vaccine use in China, describe its current status, and offer a preliminary outlook on the future of the vaccine, to provide BCG researchers with a clearer understanding of its use in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Use and Development of Vaccines in China)

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8 pages, 243 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge and Awareness of Polish Parents on Vaccination against Human Papillomavirus

by Piotr Sypień and Tadeusz M. Zielonka

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071156 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1455

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations are rare among Polish children, and the reasons are scant. The objective was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and awareness of parents about HPV vaccination to investigate reasons for low HPV vaccination coverage. Methods: 387 parents [...] Read more.

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations are rare among Polish children, and the reasons are scant. The objective was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and awareness of parents about HPV vaccination to investigate reasons for low HPV vaccination coverage. Methods: 387 parents of children hospitalized at the Children’s Hospital were asked to participate in an anonymous and voluntary survey study. Three hundred and two surveys were returned. Results: Only 54% of participants have heard about HPV, while 26% know that it is a sexually transmitted disease. According to 71% of responders, vaccines are generally effective, and 63% claim that they are safe. However, only 5% of daughters and 4% of sons are vaccinated against HPV. A total of 25% of parents spoke with their doctor about HPV-related diseases and prevention methods. A higher level of education (p = 0.01), knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases (p < 0.0001), perceiving vaccination as an effective and safe prophylactic method (p < 0.0001), and conversations with a doctor (p < 0.0001) are strong motivators to vaccinate children against HPV. This decision is free of religious beliefs, origin, age, gender and the number of children. Conclusions: Polish parents have a positive attitude towards vaccination. They recognize the limitations of their knowledge and express a desire to further it. Educational activity is an important element of physicians’ work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination and Public Health Version III)

14 pages, 876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Vaccine for Children: Vaccination Willingness of Parents and Its Associated Factors—A Network Analysis

by Julia Barbara Krakowczyk, Alexander Bäuerle, Lars Pape, Theodor Kaup, Laura Nulle, Martin Teufel and Eva-Maria Skoda

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071155 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2399

Abstract

Different COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for underage children, so parents and caregivers currently face the decision of whether to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 or not. Due to the rather moderate vaccine acceptance among parents across different countries, the objective of the [...] Read more.

Different COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for underage children, so parents and caregivers currently face the decision of whether to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 or not. Due to the rather moderate vaccine acceptance among parents across different countries, the objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between different psychological, demographic, and behavioral factors related to the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine for underage children among parents. In particular, vaccination attitudes, whether parents have been vaccinated against COVID-19 themselves, COVID-19 fear, attitude towards COVID-19 policy measures, governmental trust, subjective level of information, perceived risk of disease progression, and perceived risk of vaccine side effects were the variables of interest. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design, and the sample consisted of 2405 participants. A network analysis was conducted to investigate the associations and interconnection among these variables. The results showed that, in particular, compliance, confidence in the safety of vaccines, whether parents have been vaccinated against COVID-19 themselves, trust in the governmental system, fear of COVID-19, and the parents’ age were directly related to the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine for children. To increase compliance and confidence in the vaccines’ safety among parents, promotion campaigns should provide more information concerning the vaccines’ safety, particularly for younger parents who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 themselves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Worldwide Vaccination Willingness for COVID-19)

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20 pages, 1132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Persistent Health Issues, Adverse Events, and Effectiveness of Vaccines during the Second Wave of COVID-19: A Cohort Study from a Tertiary Hospital in North India

by Upinder Kaur, Sapna Bala, Aditi Joshi, Noti Taruni Srija Reddy, Chetan Japur, Mayank Chauhan, Nikitha Pedapanga, Shubham Kumar, Anurup Mukherjee, Vaibhav Mishra, Dolly Talda, Rohit Singh, Rohit Kumar Gupta, Ashish Kumar Yadav, Poonam Jyoti Rana, Jyoti Srivastava, Shobha Bhat K., Anup Singh, Naveen Kumar P.G., Manoj Pandey, Kishor Patwardhan, Sangeeta Kansal and Sankha Shubhra Chakrabarti Show full author list Hide full author list

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071153 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7361

Abstract

Background There is paucity of real-world data on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness from cohort designs. Variable vaccine performance has been observed in test-negative case-control designs. There is also scarce real-world data of health issues in individuals receiving vaccines after prior COVID-19, and of adverse [...] Read more.

Background There is paucity of real-world data on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness from cohort designs. Variable vaccine performance has been observed in test-negative case-control designs. There is also scarce real-world data of health issues in individuals receiving vaccines after prior COVID-19, and of adverse events of significant concern (AESCs) in the vaccinated. Methods: A cohort study was conducted from July 2021 to December 2021 in a tertiary hospital of North India. The primary outcome was vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 during the second wave in India. Secondary outcomes were AESCs, and persistent health issues in those receiving COVID-19 vaccines. Regression analyses were performed to determine risk factors of COVID-19 outcomes and persistent health issues. Results: Of the 2760 health care workers included, 2544 had received COVID-19 vaccines, with COVISHIELD (rChAdOx1-nCoV-19 vaccine) received by 2476 (97.3%) and COVAXIN (inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine) by 64 (2.5%). A total of 2691 HCWs were included in the vaccine effectiveness analysis, and 973 COVID-19 events were reported during the period of analysis. Maximum effectiveness of two doses of vaccine in preventing COVID-19 occurrence was 17% across three different strategies of analysis adopted for robustness of data. One-dose recipients were at 1.27-times increased risk of COVID-19. Prior SARS-CoV-2 infection was a strong independent protective factor against COVID-19 (aOR 0.66). Full vaccination reduced moderate–severe COVID-19 by 57%. Those with lung disease were at 2.54-times increased risk of moderate–severe COVID-19, independent of vaccination status. AESCs were observed in 33/2544 (1.3%) vaccinees, including one case each of myocarditis and severe hypersensitivity. Individuals with hypothyroidism were at 5-times higher risk and those receiving a vaccine after recovery from COVID-19 were at 3-times higher risk of persistent health issues. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination reduced COVID-19 severity but offered marginal protection against occurrence. The possible relationship of asthma and hypothyroidism with COVID-19 outcomes necessitates focused research. With independent protection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and high-risk of persistent health issues in individuals receiving vaccine after recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection, the recommendation of vaccinating those with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection needs reconsideration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)

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7 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Mass Index and Antibody Persistence after Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Hepatitis B Vaccinations

by Marco Fonzo, Annamaria Nicolli, Stefano Maso, Lorenzo Carrer, Andrea Trevisan and Chiara Bertoncello

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071152 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1383

Abstract

Overweight and obesity may cause a reduced response to vaccination. The purpose of the present research was to study the relationship between current body mass index (BMI) and antibody persistence after vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) [...] Read more.

Overweight and obesity may cause a reduced response to vaccination. The purpose of the present research was to study the relationship between current body mass index (BMI) and antibody persistence after vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) given during childhood, as per the current vaccination schedule. The study was conducted on 2185 students at the School of Medicine, University of Padua, Italy. The mean age of the participants was 20.3 years. After adjusting for sex, age at first dose of vaccine administered, age at last dose, and age at study enrollment, no significant association was found between lack of serologic protection and BMI for either the HBV vaccine or each component of the MMR vaccine. For the first time, the absence of this relationship was demonstrated for the MMR vaccine. Given the evidence currently available, further research on BMI and vaccines in general remains desirable. Full article

13 pages, 1815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in Varicella Burden of Disease Following Introduction of Routine Childhood Varicella Vaccination in Argentina: A 12-Year Time Series Analysis

by Norberto Giglio, Pieralessandro Lasalvia, Manjiri Pawaskar, Cintia I. Parellada, Yaneth Gil Rojas, Paula Micone, Virginia V. Babic and Silvina E. Neyro

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1151; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071151 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2005

Abstract

One-dose universal varicella vaccination (UVV) was introduced in the Argentinian National Immunization Program in July 2015. This study examined the impact of one-dose UVV on varicella incidence and mortality in Argentina. Incidence and mortality data were obtained from official databases for pre-UVV (January [...] Read more.

One-dose universal varicella vaccination (UVV) was introduced in the Argentinian National Immunization Program in July 2015. This study examined the impact of one-dose UVV on varicella incidence and mortality in Argentina. Incidence and mortality data were obtained from official databases for pre-UVV (January 2008–June 2015) and post-UVV (July 2015–December 2019) periods. Time series analyses with autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) modeling predicted varicella incidence and mortality in absence of UVV in the target (aged 1–4 years) and overall population. Predicted and observed values post-UVV were compared to estimate UVV impact. Mean annual incidence rates per 100,000 reduced from 1999 (pre-UVV) to 1122 (post-UVV) in the target population and from 178 to 154 in the overall population. Significant declines in incidence were observed, reaching reductions of 83.9% (95% prediction interval [PI]: 58.9, 90.0) and 69.1% (95% PI: 23.6, 80.7) in the target and overall populations, respectively, during peak months (September-November) post-UVV. Decreasing trends in mortality rate from 0.4 to 0.2 per 1,000,000 population were observed. Over the last four years, one-dose UVV has significantly reduced varicella burden of disease in Argentina. Continuous efforts to improve vaccination coverage rates and long-term follow-up are needed to better understand the benefits of the UVV program. Full article

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11 pages, 1696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Coronavirus Spike Protein Based Multi-Epitope Vaccine against COVID-19 and Potential Future Zoonotic Coronaviruses by Using Immunoinformatic Approaches

by Zulqarnain Baloch, Aqsa Ikram, Saba Shamim, Ayesha Obaid, Faryal Mehwish Awan, Anam Naz, Bisma Rauff, Khadija Gilani and Javed Anver Qureshi

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071150 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1753

Abstract

Zoonotic coronaviruses (CoV) have emerged twice and have caused severe respiratory diseases in humans. Due to the frequent outbreaks of different human coronaviruses (HCoVs), the development of a pan-HCoV vaccine is of great importance. Various conserved epitopes shared by HCoVs are reported to [...] Read more.

Zoonotic coronaviruses (CoV) have emerged twice and have caused severe respiratory diseases in humans. Due to the frequent outbreaks of different human coronaviruses (HCoVs), the development of a pan-HCoV vaccine is of great importance. Various conserved epitopes shared by HCoVs are reported to induce cross-reactive T-cell responses. Therefore, this study aimed to design a multi-epitope vaccine, targeting the HCoV spike protein. Genetic analysis revealed that the spike region is highly conserved among SARS-CoV-2, bat SL-CoV, and SARS-CoV. By employing the immunoinformatic approach, we prioritized 20 MHC I and 10 MHCII conserved epitopes to design a multi-epitope vaccine. This vaccine candidate is anticipated to strongly elicit both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. These results warrant further development of this vaccine into real-world application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Vaccines for COVID-19 and Related Coronavirus Diseases)

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13 pages, 4464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vaccination with Omicron Inactivated Vaccine in Pre-vaccinated Mice Protects against SARS-CoV-2 Prototype and Omicron Variants

by Yuntao Zhang, Wenjie Tan, Zhiyong Lou, Yuxiu Zhao, Jin Zhang, Hongyang Liang, Na Li, Xiujuan Zhu, Ling Ding, Baoying Huang, Weimin Zhou, Yancen Guo, Zhaona Yang, Yuling Qiao, Zhenyu He, Bo Ma, Yao He, Di Zhu, Zhanhui Wang, Zhen Chang, Xue Zhao, Wei Wang, Ying Xu, Huiqin Zhu, Xiaotong Zheng, Chenlong Wang, Guangxue Xu, Guizhen Wu, Hui Wang and Xiaoming Yang Show full author list Hide full author list

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071149 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2295

Abstract

In response to the fast-waning immune response and the great threat of the Omicron variant of concern (VOC) to the public, we report the pilot-scale production of an inactivated Omicron vaccine candidate that induces high levels of neutralizing antibody titers to protect against [...] Read more.

In response to the fast-waning immune response and the great threat of the Omicron variant of concern (VOC) to the public, we report the pilot-scale production of an inactivated Omicron vaccine candidate that induces high levels of neutralizing antibody titers to protect against the Omicron virus. Here, we demonstrate that the inactivated Omicron vaccine is safe and effective in recalling immune responses to the HB02, Omicron, and Delta viruses after one or two doses of BBIBP-CorV. In addition, the efficient productivity and good genetic stability of the manufactured inactivated vaccine is proved. These results support the further evaluation of the Omicron vaccine in a clinical trial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in COVID-19 Vaccines Development)

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9 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Implementation and Impact of a Revised National Childhood Immunization Schedule in an Urban Asian Community

by Ngiap Chuan Tan, Qifan Tan, Wai Keong Aau and Chung Wai Mark Ng

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1148; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071148 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1741

Abstract

Changes to the national childhood immunization schedule (NCIS) can have a potential impact on vaccine uptake in the community. The NCIS in Singapore has undergone several revisions over the years, with the most recent modification on 1 November 2020. The new NCIS includes, [...] Read more.

Changes to the national childhood immunization schedule (NCIS) can have a potential impact on vaccine uptake in the community. The NCIS in Singapore has undergone several revisions over the years, with the most recent modification on 1 November 2020. The new NCIS includes, as routine, the influenza and the varicella vaccine, as well as two combination vaccines, the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine (MMRV), and the hexavalent diphtheria, acellular pertussis, tetanus, haemophilus influenza b, injectable polio, and hepatitis B vaccine (6-in-1). This retrospective database study aims to assess the effect of the new NCIS on (a) the vaccination uptake of children at 6 and 12 months and (b) the cost difference to the healthcare system and to parents. One-year vaccination data from two cohorts of children immunized according to the old (n = 10,916) and new NCIS (n = 10,299) were extracted, respectively, from their electronic medical records. The vaccine uptake at 6 and 12 months increased by 10.8 and 2.1%, respectively, with the new NCIS as compared to the old NCIS. The mean number of required visits to the primary care clinic for each child was reduced from six to four. There is an estimated 6.41% cost reduction with the new NCIS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination of Adolescents)

13 pages, 1721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immune Correlates of Disseminated BCG Infection in IL12RB1-Deficient Mice

by Xuyang Wang, Liqiu Jia, Yang Liu, Jing Wang, Chao Qiu, Tao Li, Wenhong Zhang, Zhaoqin Zhu, Jing Wu and Yanmin Wan

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1147; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071147 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1673

Abstract

Interleukin-12 receptor β1 (IL12RB1)-deficient individuals show increased susceptibilities to local or disseminated BCG infection and environmental mycobacteria infection. However, the low clinical penetrance of IL12RB1 deficiency and low recurrence rate of mycobacteria infection suggest that protective immunity still exists in this population. In [...] Read more.

Interleukin-12 receptor β1 (IL12RB1)-deficient individuals show increased susceptibilities to local or disseminated BCG infection and environmental mycobacteria infection. However, the low clinical penetrance of IL12RB1 deficiency and low recurrence rate of mycobacteria infection suggest that protective immunity still exists in this population. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of tuberculosis suppression using the IL12RB1-deficient mouse model. Our results manifested that Il12rb1^−/− mice had significantly increased CFU counts in spleens and lungs, especially when BCG (Danish strain) was inoculated subcutaneously. The innate TNF-a and IFN-γ responses decreased, while the IL-17 responses increased significantly in the lungs of Il12rb1^−/− mice. We also found that PPD-specific IFN-γ release was impaired in Il12rb1^−/− mice, but the specific TNF-a release was not compromised, and the antibody responses were significantly enhanced. Moreover, correlation analyses revealed that both the innate and PPD-specific IFN-γ responses positively correlated with CFU counts, whereas the innate IL-12a levels negatively correlated with CFU counts in Il12rb1^−/− mice lungs. Collectively, these findings proved that the adaptive immunities against mycobacteria are not completely nullified in Il12rb1^−/− mice. Additionally, our results imply that IFN-γ responses alone might not be able to contain BCGitis in the setting of IL12RB1 deficiency. Full article

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22 pages, 3360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Recombinant Chimeric Protein-Based Vaccine Containing T-Cell Epitopes from Amastigote Proteins and Combined with Distinct Adjuvants, Induces Immunogenicity and Protection against Leishmania infantum Infection

by Daniela P. Lage, Danniele L. Vale, Flávia P. Linhares, Camila S. Freitas, Amanda S. Machado, Jamille M. O. Cardoso, Daysiane de Oliveira, Nathália C. Galvani, Marcelo P. de Oliveira, João A. Oliveira-da-Silva, Fernanda F. Ramos, Grasiele S. V. Tavares, Fernanda Ludolf, Raquel S. Bandeira, Isabela A. G. Pereira, Miguel A. Chávez-Fumagalli, Bruno M. Roatt, Ricardo A. Machado-de-Ávila, Myron Christodoulides, Eduardo A. F. Coelho and Vívian T. Martins Show full author list Hide full author list

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071146 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2697

Abstract

Currently, there is no licensed vaccine to protect against human visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a potentially fatal disease caused by infection with Leishmania parasites. In the current study, a recombinant chimeric protein ChimT was developed based on T-cell epitopes identified from the immunogenic Leishmania [...] Read more.

Currently, there is no licensed vaccine to protect against human visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a potentially fatal disease caused by infection with Leishmania parasites. In the current study, a recombinant chimeric protein ChimT was developed based on T-cell epitopes identified from the immunogenic Leishmania amastigote proteins LiHyp1, LiHyV, LiHyC and LiHyG. ChimT was associated with the adjuvants saponin (Sap) or monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) and used to immunize mice, and their immunogenicity and protective efficacy were evaluated. Both ChimT/Sap and ChimT/MPLA induced the development of a specific Th1-type immune response, with significantly high levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12, TNF-α and GM-CSF cytokines produced by CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell subtypes (p < 0.05), with correspondingly low production of anti-leishmanial IL-4 and IL-10 cytokines. Significantly increased (p < 0.05) levels of nitrite, a proxy for nitric oxide, and IFN-γ expression (p < 0.05) were detected in stimulated spleen cell cultures from immunized and infected mice, as was significant production of parasite-specific IgG2a isotype antibodies. Significant reductions in the parasite load in the internal organs of the immunized and infected mice (p < 0.05) were quantified with a limiting dilution technique and quantitative PCR and correlated with the immunological findings. ChimT/MPLA showed marginally superior immunogenicity than ChimT/Sap, and although this was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), ChimT/MPLA was preferred since ChimT/Sap induced transient edema in the inoculation site. ChimT also induced high IFN-γ and low IL-10 levels from human PBMCs isolated from healthy individuals and from VL-treated patients. In conclusion, the experimental T-cell multi-epitope amastigote stage Leishmania vaccine administered with adjuvants appears to be a promising vaccine candidate to protect against VL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccines against Infectious Pathogens)

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8 pages, 529 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Adults with Trisomy 21 Have Differential Antibody Responses to Influenza A

by Stephanie James, Robert C. Haight, Cassandra Hanna and Lindsey Furton

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071145 - 19 Jul 2022

Viewed by 1472

Abstract

Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. In the past two decades, the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome has significantly increased from early 20s to early 60s, creating a population of individuals of which little is known [...] Read more.

Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. In the past two decades, the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome has significantly increased from early 20s to early 60s, creating a population of individuals of which little is known about how well they are protected against infectious disease. The goal of this work is to better understand if adults with Down syndrome are well protected against influenza following vaccination. We obtained plasma samples from 18 adults (average age = 31yo) with Down syndrome and 17 age/gender-matched disomic individuals, all vaccinated against influenza. Antibody concentration to influenza A was measured using ELISA and antibody titers were measured using a hemagglutinin inhibition assay. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata Statistical Software. Adults with Down syndrome had a significantly increased concentration of antibodies to a mixture of influenza A viral proteins; however, they had a significantly decreased titer to the Influenza A/Hong Kong compared to disomic controls. These findings suggest that more vigorous studies of B- and T-cell function in adults with Down syndrome with respect to influenza vaccination are warranted, and that this population may benefit from a high-dose influenza vaccine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Vaccines and Vaccination for Influenza and COVID-19: Past, Present and Future)

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14 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Protective Effects of Influenza Vaccination in Elderly Patients with Breast Cancer in Taiwan: A Real-World Evidence-Based Study

by Szu-Yuan Wu, Ho-Jui Tung, Kuang-Hua Huang, Chiachi Bonnie Lee, Tung-Han Tsai and Yu-Chia Chang

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071144 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1665

Abstract

In elderly patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, clarity is lacking regarding the effects of influenza vaccines, particularly on clinical outcomes. This study conducted two nationwide, population-based, and propensity score-matched cohorts to estimate and compare the protective effects of influenza vaccine in elderly [...] Read more.

In elderly patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, clarity is lacking regarding the effects of influenza vaccines, particularly on clinical outcomes. This study conducted two nationwide, population-based, and propensity score-matched cohorts to estimate and compare the protective effects of influenza vaccine in elderly women and elderly patients with breast cancer. Data were derived from the National Health Insurance Research Database and Cancer Registry Database. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to compare outcomes between the vaccinated and unvaccinated cohorts. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were used to estimate the relative risks, and stratified analyses in the breast cancer cohort were performed to further evaluate elderly breast cancer patients undergoing a variety of adjuvant therapies. The GEE analysis showed that the aORs of death and hospitalization, including for influenza and pneumonia, respiratory diseases, respiratory failure, and heart disease, did not significantly decrease in vaccinated elderly patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer. Conversely, the aORs of all influenza-related clinical outcomes were significantly decreased in elderly women. No protective effects of influenza vaccination were found in the elderly patients with a newly diagnosed breast cancer. More studies focusing on identifying strategies to improve the real-world effectiveness of influenza vaccination to the immunocompromised are needed. Our clinical outcomes will be valuable for future public health policy establishment and shared decision making for influenza vaccine use in elderly patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer. According to our findings, regular influenza vaccine administration for elderly patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer may be reconsidered, with potential contraindications for vaccination. On the other hand, implementing the vaccination of close contacts of patients with breast cancer may be a more important strategy for enhancing protection of those fragile patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination and Public Health)

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9 pages, 1615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Analysis of Anti-N and Anti-S Antibody Titers of SARS-CoV-2 Infection after the Third Dose of COVID-19 Vaccination

by Nuri Lee, Seri Jeong, Su Kyung Lee, Eun-Jung Cho, Jungwon Hyun, Min-Jeong Park, Wonkeun Song and Hyun Soo Kim

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071143 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 1897

Abstract

We quantitatively analyzed SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels in patients after two doses of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine and the third BNT162b2 booster. We obtained 255 serum samples from 149 healthcare workers 1 and 4 months after the third dose. Of the 149 participants, 58 [...] Read more.

We quantitatively analyzed SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels in patients after two doses of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine and the third BNT162b2 booster. We obtained 255 serum samples from 149 healthcare workers 1 and 4 months after the third dose. Of the 149 participants, 58 (38.9%) experienced COVID-19 infection during the 4-month study period, with infection occurring 7–62 days before the second blood draw. Total antibody titers against the anti-spike (anti-S) and anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) proteins of SARS-CoV-2 were measured using Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S and Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 assays (Roche), respectively. The median anti-S antibody titer in the non-infected groups at 4 months after the third dose was significantly decreased compared to that at 1 month after the third dose (from 17,777 to 3673 U/mL, p < 0.001). The infected group showed higher median anti-S antibody titers at 4 months (19,539 U/mL) than the non-infected group (3673 U/mL). The median anti-N antibody titer in the infected group at 4 months after the third dose was a 5.07 cut-off index (79.3% positivity). Anti-N antibody titers in the infected group were correlated with the number of days after SARS-CoV-2 infection. These data provide useful information for determining quarantine strategies and fourth vaccination requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Response of SARS-CoV-2 Infection)

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27 pages, 3257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a T Cell-Based COVID-19 Vaccine Using a Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine Viral Vector

by Irina Isakova-Sivak, Ekaterina Stepanova, Victoria Matyushenko, Sergei Niskanen, Daria Mezhenskaya, Ekaterina Bazhenova, Elena Krutikova, Tatiana Kotomina, Polina Prokopenko, Bogdan Neterebskii, Aleksandr Doronin, Elena Vinogradova, Kirill Yakovlev, Konstantin Sivak and Larisa Rudenko

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071142 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3328

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in 2020 and has caused an unprecedented burden to all countries in the world. SARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate and antigenically evolve, enabling multiple reinfections. To address the issue of the virus antigenic variability, T cell-based vaccines are being developed, [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in 2020 and has caused an unprecedented burden to all countries in the world. SARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate and antigenically evolve, enabling multiple reinfections. To address the issue of the virus antigenic variability, T cell-based vaccines are being developed, which are directed to more conserved viral epitopes. We used live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) virus vector to generate recombinant influenza viruses expressing various T-cell epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 from either neuraminidase (NA) or non-structural (NS1) genes, via the P2A self-cleavage site. Intranasal immunization of human leukocyte antigen-A*0201 (HLA-A2.1) transgenic mice with these recombinant viruses did not result in significant SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell responses, due to the immunodominance of NP₃₆₆ influenza T-cell epitope. However, side-by-side stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of COVID-19 convalescents with recombinant viruses and LAIV vector demonstrated activation of memory T cells in samples stimulated with LAIV/SARS-CoV-2, but not LAIV alone. Hamsters immunized with a selected LAIV/SARS-CoV-2 prototype were protected against challenge with influenza virus and a high dose of SARS-CoV-2 of Wuhan and Delta lineages, which was confirmed by reduced weight loss, milder clinical symptoms and less pronounced histopathological signs of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the lungs, compared to LAIV- and mock-immunized animals. Overall, LAIV is a promising platform for the development of a bivalent vaccine against influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue SARS-CoV-2 Variants Research and Ending the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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6 pages, 230 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Early Clinical Experience with Molnupiravir for Mild to Moderate Breakthrough COVID-19 among Fully Vaccinated Patients at Risk for Disease Progression

by Antonio Vena, Luca Traman, Martina Bavastro, Alessandro Limongelli, Chiara Dentone, Federica Magnè, Daniele Roberto Giacobbe, Malgorzata Mikulska, Lucia Taramasso, Antonio Di Biagio and Matteo Bassetti

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071141 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2114

Abstract

Information on the efficacy and safety of molnupiravir in daily clinical practice is very scarce. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of fully vaccinated patients with mild to moderate breakthrough COVID-19 treated with molnupiravir between January 2022 and February 2022. [...] Read more.

Information on the efficacy and safety of molnupiravir in daily clinical practice is very scarce. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of fully vaccinated patients with mild to moderate breakthrough COVID-19 treated with molnupiravir between January 2022 and February 2022. Overall, 145 patients were enrolled. Their median age was 71.0 years, and 60.7% were males. The most common underlying condition was a severe cardiovascular disease (37.2%), followed by primary or acquired immunodeficiency (22.8%), and oncological/onco-hematological disease in the active phase (22.1%). At 30 days after breakthrough COVID-19 diagnosis, only 4 out of 145 patients (2.7%) required hospital admission. No patients developed severe COVID-19, were admitted to the ICU, or died during the follow-up period. Adverse events, mild in intensity, occurred in 2 patients (1.4%). Our results support the current evidence establishing positive clinical and safety outcomes of molnupiravir in fully vaccinated patients with mild or moderate breakthrough COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 Vaccines: The Way Back to Normal Life Is Now Marked)

10 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relative Vaccine Effectiveness of the Third Dose of CoronaVac or BNT162b2 Following a Two-Dose CoronaVac Regimen: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study from an Adult Vaccine Center in Turkey

by Meliha Cagla Sonmezer, Gulcin Telli Dizman, Enes Erul, Taha Koray Sahin, Tuğba Saricaoglu, Alparslan Alp, Mine Durusu Tanriover, Omrum Uzun, Serhat Unal and Murat Akova

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071140 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2207

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to pose a threat to public health with the potential for the emergence of new variants. Vaccines are the milestones to control and slow down the damage of the pandemic. As of January 2021, a two-dose regimen with [...] Read more.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to pose a threat to public health with the potential for the emergence of new variants. Vaccines are the milestones to control and slow down the damage of the pandemic. As of January 2021, a two-dose regimen with CoronaVac was authorized in Turkey. Due to the waning seroprevalence rate of SARS-CoV-2 over time, BNT162b2 or CoronaVac has been administered as the third dose following a two-dose CoronaVac regimen as a national vaccination policy. As of 14 January 2021, 5243 volunteers who received two doses of the CoronaVac vaccine at Hacettepe University Adult Vaccine Center were followed prospectively. In our study, relative vaccine effectiveness (VE^ff) for the third dose of the CoronaVac was 58.24% and 87.27% for BNT162b2 in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 cases. There were no hospitalizations, intensive care unit admissions, or deaths in third-dose booster groups with either BNT162b2 or CoronaVac, yielding 100% effectiveness. Both homologous or heterologous third-dose boosters provided further protection against severe COVID-19 and should be prioritized as an effective strategy to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19: Safety, Immunogenicity and Effectiveness of Available Vaccines)

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10 pages, 579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Immunization, Adverse Events, and Efficacy of a Fourth Dose of BNT162b2 Vaccine in Health Workers in Mexico, a Pilot Study

by Maria Elena Romero-Ibarguengoitia, Arnulfo González-Cantú, Diego Rivera-Salinas, Yodira Guadalupe Hernández-Ruíz, Ana Gabriela Armendariz-Vázquez, Irene Antonieta Barco-Flores, Rosalinda González-Facio and Miguel Ángel Sanz-Sánchez

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071139 - 17 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1935

Abstract

There is scarce information on seroconversion and adverse events after immunization (AEFI) with the fourth dose of BNT162b2. Our aim was to correlate the magnitude of the antibody response to this vaccination regimen in terms of clinical conditions and AEFI. This was an [...] Read more.

There is scarce information on seroconversion and adverse events after immunization (AEFI) with the fourth dose of BNT162b2. Our aim was to correlate the magnitude of the antibody response to this vaccination regimen in terms of clinical conditions and AEFI. This was an observational pilot study in which SARS-CoV-2 S1–S2 IgG antibodies titers were measured 21–28 days after the first and second dose, three months after the second dose, 1–7 and 21–28 days after the third dose, before the fourth dose, and 21–28 days after the fourth dose. We recruited 112 subjects in a hospital in Mexico, 74% women, with an average age of 43 (SD 9) years. After the first dose, subjects had a median IgG AU/mL (IQR) of 122 (1904) that increased to 1875 (2095), 3020 (2330), and 4230 (3393) 21–28 days after the second, third, and fourth doses, respectively (p < 0.01). The number (%) who experienced any AEFI between the first and fourth doses was 90 (80.4), 89 (79), 65 (58), and 69 (61.5), respectively (p < 0.001). After the fourth dose, the most frequent of AEFI was pain at the injection site (87%). There was a correlation between AEFI and gender after the fourth dose, as well as with antibody levels (p < 0.05). During the Omicron outbreak, six (5.3%) had mild COVID-19 for 8–28 days after the fourth dose. The median increase in S1/S2 IgG was 30.8-fold after the fourth BNT162b2 dose when compared with the first dose and caused mild AEFI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effectiveness, Safety and Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines)

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10 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Willingness of the Healthcare Professionals Working in Healthcare Institutions to Accept the First Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine in Jordan: A National Survey

by Mamdouh El-hneiti, Abeer Shaheen, Malakeh Z. Malak, Rawan Al-Hussami, Sakher Salem Al-Hiary, Mutasem Elfalah and Mahmoud Al-Hussami

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071138 - 17 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1516

Abstract

Health workers play an important part as role models, advocates for vaccination, vaccinators and educators in a community. Furthermore, they are at high risk of being infected with COVID-19 as they are on the frontlines. Thus, this study purposed to determine the willingness [...] Read more.

Health workers play an important part as role models, advocates for vaccination, vaccinators and educators in a community. Furthermore, they are at high risk of being infected with COVID-19 as they are on the frontlines. Thus, this study purposed to determine the willingness of the healthcare professionals working in healthcare institutions to accept the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Jordan. A cross-sectional design and a convenience-sampling method were used to recruit the study population from different healthcare sectors. A web-based survey was used to collect data. Findings showed that 1594 healthcare professionals responded and 74% of them were aged less than 45 years. Almost 65% of the respondents were registered nurses and 68.4% of them were married. A total of 94.9% of the participants heard about the COVID-19 vaccine, but only 56.5% of them had had the opportunity to attend lectures/discussions about COVID-19 vaccine. Official government websites were the primary source of obtaining information about COVID-19 (36.3%). The willingness of acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccine was 63%. There were positive correlations between vaccine acceptance and compliance toward COVID-19 infection control precautions (r = 0.119, p < 0.01), knowledge about COVID-19 (r = 0.256, p < 0.01), age (r = 0.170, p < 0.01), and years of experience (r = 0.105, p < 0.01). Furthermore, age, knowledge, and compliance were significant predictors of the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. Thus, it is necessary to develop specific interventions for healthcare professionals with low acceptance rates and take into consideration the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Further research is needed to explore the factors influencing the refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine by healthcare professionals. Full article

13 pages, 644 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Outbreak and BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccination Coverage in a Correctional Facility during Circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 Variant in Italy

by Angela Stufano, Nicola Buonvino, Claudia Maria Trombetta, Daniela Pontrelli, Serena Marchi, Giuseppe Lobefaro, Leonarda De Benedictis, Eleonora Lorusso, Maria Teresa Carofiglio, Violetta Iris Vasinioti, Emanuele Montomoli, Nicola Decaro and Piero Lovreglio

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071137 - 17 Jul 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1978

Abstract

Background. The recent spread of the highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) has raised concerns about protection against COVID-19 in congregate settings such as prisons, characterized by a high risk of transmission and possible difficulties in obtaining adequate vaccination coverage. The present [...] Read more.

Background. The recent spread of the highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) has raised concerns about protection against COVID-19 in congregate settings such as prisons, characterized by a high risk of transmission and possible difficulties in obtaining adequate vaccination coverage. The present study aims to investigate the spread of an outbreak of COVID-19 in an Italian correctional facility during the dominant circulation of the Omicron BA.1 variant, and also considers BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination coverage among inmates. A COVID-19 screening campaign by RT-PCR was performed on 515 detainees from 4–30 January 2022, in response to an outbreak that began in the correctional facility. Furthermore, 101 serum samples collected from healthy inmates 21 days after having received the second dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine were tested for neutralizing antibodies against both the wild-type SARS-CoV-2 strain and the Omicron BA.1 variant. The global attack rate during the study period was 43.6% (RR 0.8), progressively reducing from unvaccinated inmates (62.7%, RR 1.8) to those who had one dose (52.3%, RR 1.5), two doses (full cycle) (45.0%, RR 1.3), and the third dose (booster) vaccinated group (31.4%, RR 0.7). The percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects among unvaccinated inmates was significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.001), while no significant difference was observed between inmates with one or two vaccine doses. Only two of the positive inmates were hospitalized for COVID-19. The geometric mean titer of neutralizing antibodies in the tested sub-group after two doses of vaccine was lower than in previous studies against the wild-type virus, and showed a complete lack of neutralization against the Omicron variant in 92.1% of individuals. The findings support the need to prioritize vaccination in correctional facilities, as a public health measure to increase the protection of inmates and consequently of prison workers and the community against COVID-19, in coordination with the other prevention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue SARS-CoV-2 Variants Research and Ending the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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8 pages, 570 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Two Pediatric Cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome with Overlapping Neurological Involvement Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination and Unknown SARS-CoV2 Infection: The Importance of Pre-Vaccination History

by Veronica Santilli, Emma Concetta Manno, Carmela Giancotta, Chiara Rossetti, Nicola Cotugno, Donato Amodio, Gioacchino Andrea Rotulo, Annalisa Deodati, Roberto Bianchi, Giulia Lucignani, Daniela Longo, Massimiliano Valeriani and Paolo Palma

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071136 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2095

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine roll-out has been successful around the world. However, there are increasing concerns about adverse events. We report two pediatric cases of Multisystem-Inflammatory-Syndrome (MIS-C) with neurological involvement that occurred after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and unknown recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Brain magnetic resonance revealed [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine roll-out has been successful around the world. However, there are increasing concerns about adverse events. We report two pediatric cases of Multisystem-Inflammatory-Syndrome (MIS-C) with neurological involvement that occurred after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and unknown recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Brain magnetic resonance revealed mild-encephalopathy with reversible-splenial-lesion in both cases and complete resolution within 4 weeks. In conclusion, this report aims to describe rare emerging clinical entities that can help pediatricians to make an early diagnosis and to provide appropriate treatment. Multisystem-Inflammatory-Syndromes following COVID-19 vaccination remain rare events. When a history of a recent contact with SARS-CoV-2 is present, a careful evaluation by the clinicians in charge of immunization activities is suggested prior to proceeding with the vaccination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Related Adverse Reaction)

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Clinical and Molecular Characterization of a Rare Case of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine-Associated Myositis

by Eli Magen, Sumit Mukherjee, Mahua Bhattacharya, Rajesh Detroja, Eugene Merzon, Idan Blum, Alejandro Livoff, Mark Shlapobersky, Gideon Baum, Ran Talisman, Evgenia Cherniavsky, Amir Dori and Milana Frenkel-Morgenstern

Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10071135 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 10666

Abstract

Initial clinical trials and surveillance data have shown that the most commonly administered BNT162b2 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine is effective and safe. However, several cases of mRNA vaccine-induced mild to moderate adverse events were recently reported. Here, we report a rare case of myositis [...] Read more.

Initial clinical trials and surveillance data have shown that the most commonly administered BNT162b2 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine is effective and safe. However, several cases of mRNA vaccine-induced mild to moderate adverse events were recently reported. Here, we report a rare case of myositis after injection of the first dose of BNT162b2 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine into the left deltoid muscle of a 34-year-old, previously healthy woman who presented progressive proximal muscle weakness, progressive dysphagia, and dyspnea with respiratory failure. One month after vaccination, BNT162b2 vaccine mRNA expression was detected in a tissue biopsy of the right deltoid and quadriceps muscles. We propose this case as a rare example of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-induced myositis. This study comprehensively characterizes the clinical and molecular features of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine-associated myositis in which the patient was severely affected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adverse Events of COVID-19 Vaccines)

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Vaccines, Volume 10, Issue 7 (July 2022) – 183 articles

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