Designing Universal Influenza Medical Countermeasures

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infectious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. It is a significant global public health issue, annually causing severe illness and death in high-risk populations. Currently, annual flu vaccines are the primary preventive measure, but they are strain-specific, requiring predictions of the dominant circulating strains each year. A more universal, strain-independent approach is highly desirable. With the constant evolution of influenza viruses, mismatches between vaccine strains and circulating strains can occur, making the vaccines less effective. Additionally, creating new vaccines each year is time-consuming and resource-intensive. The problem with the current approach is the lack of a long-lasting, broad protection against various influenza strains. The recurring nature of the disease and the changing characteristics of the influenza viruses emphasize the need for a more effective solution.

Technology Description

This technology proposes a universal prophylactic and therapeutic compositions for influenza. It aims to prevent infection by directing the immune response toward the highly conserved regions of the influenza viruses. These regions are relatively constant across various strains, facilitating broad coverage of protection. In addition, the technology also provides therapeutic compositions to treat infections, focusing on the same conserved regions of the virus as the opportunity to combat numerous strains of the viral disease. What sets this technology apart is its universality and targeted approach. By focusing on highly conserved areas of the virus, the technology is potentially effective against multiple influenza strains, including seasonal and pandemic variations. This comprehensive coverage makes it differentiated from traditional flu vaccines that must be updated annually based on predicted strains. In addition to its prophylactic protection, the technology offers therapeutic compositions for treating existing influenza infections, bringing a dual approach to influenza management.