Confirmation of Efficacy of the Bivalent Meningococcal B Vaccine

A phase III clinical trial provides further evidence on the efficacy of the licensed bivalent factor H–binding protein meningococcal B vaccine.

Although relatively uncommon, invasive meningococcal infections can be devastating. Serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis strains cause many of these infections in the U.S. and Europe, but development of a protective vaccine against these strains was problematic owing to the low immunogenicity of serogroup B capsular polysaccharide. Fortunately, phase I and phase II trials showed that a vaccine composed of two variants of a conserved surface-exposed bacterial protein that binds to complement factor H found on meningococcal B strains (MenB-FHbp) appeared clinically effective, leading to U.S. licensure in 2014. Two manufacturer-supported phase III trials that confirm the efficacy and safety of this vaccine have now been published.

In parallel mul…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Confirmation of Efficacy of the Bivalent Meningococcal B Vaccine

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Reviewing Author