CHR News Desk | New Delhi
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a comprehensive statement on Tuesday regarding the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines, shedding light on ongoing efforts to combat the evolving SARS-CoV-2 virus. With an emphasis on enhancing vaccine-induced immune responses to circulating variants, the WHO Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC) convened to deliberate on critical updates to vaccine formulations and their implications for global vaccination strategies.
Key points from the statement underscored the persistent circulation and genetic evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, particularly in the spike protein region. Notably, the TAG-CO-VAC recommended the adoption of a monovalent JN.1 lineage as the antigen in future COVID-19 vaccine formulations, aligning with WHO’s commitment to fortify global health security amidst the ongoing pandemic.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, underscored the pivotal role of these updates in safeguarding future generations against epidemics and pandemics, stressing the imperative of equitable and solidarity-driven approaches.
The WHO Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution (TAG-VE) provided critical insights into the genetic evolution of the virus, informing TAG-CO-VAC’s evidence-based recommendations. These recommendations were informed by a meticulous review of published and unpublished data encompassing genetic evolution, antigenic characterization, immunogenicity data, vaccine effectiveness estimates, and preclinical and clinical immunogenicity studies.
Notably, nearly all circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants reported as of April 2024 are derived from the JN.1 lineage, prompting the recommendation for future vaccine formulations to target enhanced neutralizing antibody responses to JN.1 and its descendent lineages. While the current monovalent XBB.1.5 formulation continues to offer protection, concerns linger regarding its efficacy against symptomatic disease amidst ongoing viral evolution.
Furthermore, the TAG-CO-VAC highlighted the importance of continued surveillance and data generation to inform future vaccine developments and global vaccination strategies.
In line with WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) policy, vaccination programmes are urged to proceed with existing COVID-19 vaccines without delay, emphasizing the paramount importance of equitable access to vaccination.
The statement reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in the ongoing battle against COVID-19, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and adaptation in the face of a rapidly evolving pandemic landscape.
