The new £10m collaborative research initiative, FLUCOP, will provide new and improved tools to better evaluate how effective the immune response to the seasonal influenza vaccine is.
New and improved tools will allow better comparisons of clinical data across laboratories, even when the trials are run at different times in different geographical locations. The tools can be used to establish correlates or measure parameters that will show a vaccinated person is protected against subsequent infections or disease. They will help to improve public trust in the efficacy of vaccination, which is the most effective method of controlling seasonal infections and preparing for a potential pandemic.
The research project funded by the Innovative Medicines Initiative involves 22 partners including manufacturers, small businesses, academic institutions, public health organisations and NGOs. NIBSC is co-leader in one of the work packages of the project.
Visit our website for more information on influenza vaccine research at NIBSC.