In a simulation study using a dynamic disease model for the UK, Sam Lovick Consulting with colleagues, Van Hung Nguyen and Allen Bollands, show the value of early intervention in an influenza pandemic using a partially-matched vaccine. The simulation assumed that the partially-matched vaccines is less effective at reducing transmission than a matched vaccine that produced once the pandemic strain is known with certainty, but that it is available much earlier as soon as there is notice of an impending pandemic.

Given the high costs of social distancing measures necessary to manage a pandemic prior to matched vaccine availability, an early availability partially-matched vaccine would be valuable; consideration should be given to developing a supply of broader spectrum vaccines for immediate deployment using technologies such as adjuvants and multi-strains. This work was presented at the 7th ESWI Influenza Conference and was supported by Seqirus.