Breakthroughs in Influenza Vaccination: Highlights from the Sabin IVI Program

The Sabin Vaccine Institute’s Influenza Vaccine Innovation (IVI) program was established to catalyze collaboration across scientific disciplines to accelerate innovation in a universal influenza vaccine capable of protecting against all strains of the disease. Launched in 2018, a century after the devastating 1918 influenza pandemic, the program aimed to harness scientific and technological advances to achieve this ultimate objective in vaccine development. Now that the program has drawn to a close, here are five key takeaways that highlight its impact and legacy:

Build a transdisciplinary network

A standout success of the IVI program was its ability to create a robust transdisciplinary network, engaging representatives from across the scientific, policy, and public sectors in pursuit of a common goal. By convening experts from diverse fields such as bioinformatics, structural biology, and systems biology, IVI fostered innovative approaches to the development of a universal influenza vaccine. IVI’s events, videos, webinars, and documentaries engaged not only experts in public health, but also those in civil society, philanthropic organizations, economists, historians, and journalists, bringing fresh perspectives to combat influenza’s global threat. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, transdisciplinary collaboration fosters innovation which can lead to breakthroughs in solutions to complex scientific challenges beyond influenza.

Cultivate strong partnerships

IVI’s strategic partnerships played a crucial role in amplifying its impact. Collaborations with organizations such as the Sabin-Aspen Vaccine Policy group, the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), the Pandemic Action Network, Ready2Respond, and the Global Funders Consortium for Universal Influenza Vaccine Development were pivotal in amplifying its content and conducting research. These alliances helped disseminate critical research, produce joint webinars and white papers, and enhance global discussions on influenza vaccines.

Be prepared to pivot

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the program expanded its network and created content to invite scientists, policymakers, and the public to join critical conversations related to the pandemic. Then, it quickly adapted to leverage insights from the pandemic to inform influenza vaccine development. The team produced extensive content during this period, including a video series, a full-length documentary, and numerous publications that drew parallels between the pandemic responses and the urgent need for a universal influenza vaccine. This not only maintained its focus on a multidisciplinary collaboration but also expanded its reach, ensuring the lessons from COVID-19 would enhance future influenza vaccine research and pandemic preparedness. The ability to quickly pivot and adapt to changing circumstances is essential for managing public health crises and ensuring the continued progress of critical research projects.

Engage and educate the public

IVI made significant strides in public engagement and education. The program developed a variety of content aimed at both scientific communities and the general public, including the “Flu Vaccine Forum” webinar and podcast series, and the VaxHunt game for early-career scientists. This content reached over 15 million viewers and readers worldwide, significantly amplifying the program’s impact and spreading awareness about the importance of influenza vaccination. By making critical information accessible to a broad audience, similar approaches can drive widespread public health improvements and enhance the uptake of health interventions.

Sustainability is key

Even after its conclusion, IVI’s impact continues through the resources it created. The program’s evergreen materials, such as the “Lessons from COVID-19” series and the “Influence of the Stars” documentary, remain publicly accessible. They continue to inform and inspire ongoing efforts in vaccine research and pandemic preparedness, ensuring that IVI’s legacy endures even after its conclusion.