In a recent study published in Emerging Microbes & Infections, researchers found that seasonal influenza vaccines in routine global use may significantly reduce the risk of death from H5N1 infection. The findings highlight an important implication for pandemic preparedness, suggesting that readily available tools may offer protection while the world races to develop more targeted solutions.

An Annenberg Public Policy Center survey finds that nearly 7 in 10 Americans trust vaccine scientists a moderate or greater amount to act in the best interests of “people like you."

A new study found that infants receiving maternal Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination or Nirsevimab after birth had significantly lower RSV infection and healthcare use compared to unprotected infants. It also showed fewer severe complications in RSV-positive infants with prevention. These findings highlight the positive impact of RSV preventative measures in high-risk populations. Findings from the study will be presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2026 Meeting, taking place April 24-27 in Boston.

Memory cells in the nose slow the influenza virus as soon as it enters the body. They reduce viral levels and may help protect against more severe illness. The study from the University of Gothenburg may help guide the development of better influenza vaccines.  

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with limited curative options. Tumor vaccines activate the immune system against malignant cells and represent a promising approach. Multiple platforms – peptide, dendritic cell (DC), nucleic acid (DNA/mRNA), and viral vector – have been explored. Peptide and DC vaccines have the most clinical data, showing safety and immunogenicity. Personalized neoantigen vaccines are refining precision. Major challenges include an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, heterogeneity, immune evasion, and weak immunogenicity. Advances in sequencing, nanotechnology, and AI are opening new avenues. Combinations with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), chemotherapy, or locoregional treatments are under active investigation. Vaccine‑based immunotherapy for HCC is still early but holds great potential.