Pfizer and BioNTech have released preliminary findings from a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating their mRNA vaccine candidate that combines protection against influenza and COVID-19. The trial enrolled over 8,000 participants between the ages of 18 and 64.
The vaccine candidate, which combines Pfizer’s influenza vaccine with BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine, demonstrated robust immune responses against influenza A strain. It also elicited comparable responses against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
However, the vaccine did not meet all primary immunogenicity objectives, particularly against the influenza B strain.
In a separate Phase 2 trial, Pfizer evaluated a standalone trivalent influenza mRNA vaccine, which showed positive immunogenicity results in adults aged 18-64.
Based on these findings, Pfizer and BioNTech are refining the combination vaccine to enhance immune responses against influenza B. They plan to consult with health authorities to determine the next steps.
The study also indicated that co-administering licensed influenza and COVID-19 vaccines resulted in strong immune responses against both diseases without any safety concerns.
Pfizer and BioNTech remain committed to developing combination vaccines to reduce the burden of respiratory infections efficiently. They express optimism about the potential of their combined COVID-19 and influenza vaccine program.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
