Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (USA) have developed an innovative vaccine called Epigraph, which can protect against multiple strains of influenza A, including dangerous variants of the virus circulating in humans, pigs, and birds. The findings were published in the scientific journal Nature Communications.

The results of the six-month trial showed a long-lasting immune response, which, according to predictions, can be maintained for up to ten years.

The new vaccination strategy is based on a computer analysis of more than 6,000 strains of the influenza (flu) virus that have emerged over the past century.

Specially developed Epigraph software identified the most stable epitopes—parts of the virus that trigger an immune response. This has made it possible to create a “universal” drug that is effective against constantly mutating strains.

Tests on pigs have shown that Epigraph protects against 12 different strains, including the 2009 pandemic H1N1.

The development is particularly valuable in terms of its ability to prevent zoonotic—i.e. between animals and humans—transmission of the virus.

The researchers plan to expand testing of this vaccine against the H1 and H3 strains, which are more common in humans.

Successful results could end the need for annual vaccinations and considerably reduce global flu morbidity.