Split virus influenza vaccination in children: an evaluation of efficacy

Summary

Twenty-seven children aged between 4 and 13 years were given two injections of a split virus influenza vaccine (MFV-Ject, Institut Merieux) at a dose of 0.5 ml and an interval of 1 month. Each vaccination contained A/Philippines/2/82 (H3 N2) 10 μg HA, A/Brazil/11/78 (H1 N1) 10μg HA, B/Singapore/222/7915μg HA. The overall serological response was good although the B group virus produced slightly less response; however, no children were seropositive to B prior to vaccination, reflecting a tow previous exposure. Children aged over 10 years showed a generally higher serological response. Side-effects were minimal. A favourable reactogenicity/efficacy ratio was found.

Key Words::

• Vaccines
• influenza
• antibody formation
• child