Clinical Trials of Flu Vaccines in Children: Key Takeaways and Statistics

Strategic Insights -

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with other federal agencies, conducted a conference call on September 21, 2009, to discuss the clinical trials of flu vaccines in children. Rear Admiral Anne Schuchat, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, and Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, participated in the discussion along with other experts. The conversation revolved around the dosages and efficacy of flu vaccines in children, as well as the take-home messages for pediatricians and parents.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 30 microgram dose of flu vaccine in children was not significantly different from the 15 microgram dose.
  • There is no apparent reason to use a higher dose of flu vaccine in children based on the current data.
  • Pediatricians should emphasize to parents that the seasonal influenza vaccines are currently available and should be obtained as soon as possible.
  • When the H1N1 2009 vaccine becomes available, pediatricians should encourage parents to get their children vaccinated, especially if they are in one of the five priority groups.
  • 20-40 children were involved in the trials, but the actual number is not specified.
  • The response rates to the 30 microgram dose were similar to those of the 15 microgram dose.
  • The CDC and HHS recommend that pediatricians tell parents to obtain the seasonal influenza vaccines as soon as they become available.

Statistics:

  • 8-10 days into the clinical trials, the response rates to the 30 microgram dose were similar to those of the 15 microgram dose.
  • The 30 microgram dose was not significantly different from the 15 microgram dose in terms of efficacy.
  • The CDC and HHS recommend that children in the five priority groups receive the H1N1 2009 vaccine when it becomes available.
  • 20-40 children were involved in the trials, but the exact number is not specified.

Sources:

  • Federal News Service, Inc. Transcript: Department of Health and Human Services Conference Call with Rear Admiral Anne Schuchat, U.S. Public Health Service, Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Anthony Fauci, M.D., Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health; Jesse Goodman, M.D., Chief Scientist, Food and Drug Administration; Bruce Gellin, M.D., Director, National Vaccine Program Office, Subject: Clinical Trials of Flu Vaccines in Children Moderated by Laurie Doeppel, News and Public Information Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Time: 11:06 A.M. EDT, Date: Monday, September 21, 2009.