Molecular Analysis of Influenza A (A/H3N2) Viruses Indicates Antigenic Drift in the Receptor Binding Domain and Potential Vaccine Mismatch Among Strains in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 2024–2025 - Summary - MDSpire
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Molecular Analysis of Influenza A (A/H3N2) Viruses Indicates Antigenic Drift in the Receptor Binding Domain and Potential Vaccine Mismatch Among Strains in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 2024–2025
To determine the prevalence, molecular characterization (including phylogenetic relationships and amino-acid substitutions), and vaccine compatibility of A/H3N2 viruses in Riyadh during the 2024–2025 season.
Potential vaccine mismatch was identified among circulating strains, necessitating urgent attention.
Molecular characterization revealed key amino-acid substitutions in antigenic sites that may affect vaccine response.
Interpretation:
The findings highlight the need for ongoing surveillance and potential vaccine reformulation to enhance effectiveness against circulating A/H3N2 strains.
Limitations:
Limited sample size may not represent all circulating strains, potentially skewing prevalence data.
Exclusion of vaccinated individuals could affect prevalence data and insights into vaccine effectiveness.
Conclusion:
Continuous monitoring of A/H3N2 viruses is essential for effective vaccine strategy and public health preparedness in Saudi Arabia, particularly in light of the findings.
by Shatha Ata Abdulgader, Ibrahim M. Aziz, Abdulhadi M. Abdulwahed, Mohamed A. Farrag, Reem M. Aljowaie, Abdulaziz M. Almuqrin, Noorah A. Alkubaisi, Fahad N. Almajhdi
A large English cohort study found influenza hospitalization more than doubled the short-term risk of new-onset diabetes, with prediabetes and critical care admission among the strongest predictors.
