BY MIRABEL ODETA
The United States will take part in an upcoming World Health Organization (WHO) meeting at the end of the month to help determine the composition of the influenza vaccines for the next season, WHO officials confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. The annual meeting brings together experts from around the world to review circulating influenza strains and make critical recommendations for vaccine formulation.
Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO’s director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness, noted that global influenza virus activity had experienced “a slight dip” recently, largely due to funding challenges that temporarily affected virus sample collection. However, she confirmed that shipments of influenza samples have now resumed, allowing scientists to continue their important surveillance work.
Van Kerkhove highlighted the role of the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), a network of more than 150 laboratories across 130 countries. The network continuously monitors seasonal and zoonotic influenza viruses, providing vital data that inform vaccine updates every six months. “This system is central to our ability to track influenza patterns worldwide and ensure vaccines are as effective as possible,” she said, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in preventing the spread of flu outbreaks.
The WHO meeting comes as health authorities around the world remain vigilant about influenza, particularly as virus activity can fluctuate from year to year. Experts say the timely formulation of vaccines based on the most current data is critical to reducing flu-related illness and hospitalizations. By participating in the discussions, the United States and other member states play a key role in ensuring that vaccines are designed to protect populations against the strains most likely to circulate in the upcoming flu season
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