‘Game-Changing’ Flu Vaccines Not Far Off

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Today’s flu shots aren’t perfect — but a “universal” flu vaccine that works better and lasts longer may not be far off, health experts say.

In the midst of an early flu season, health officials are urging unvaccinated people to still get a flu shot as the best step they can take to protect themselves and their families.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday that flu vaccines are 62% effective. In the past, it had said 70% to 90% effective.

In public health circles, “there is a growing consensus that we need better influenza vaccines,” says Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy. “We’re operating largely in the 1950s for our flu technology.”

Source: Sci-Tech Today (link opens in a new window)

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