Immunization with Asian-Strain Influenza Vaccine

Abstract

ALTHOUGH considerable information concerning the technic and value of influenza immunization had been acquired before the recent Asian-strain outbreak, surprising gaps in this information became apparent to those planning immunization programs at the outset of the epidemic. Extensive and careful studies, largely in the military,1 , 2 had confirmed and defined the efficacy of immunization with influenza-virus vaccines. On the basis of this evidence reasonable inferences could be drawn concerning antibody response (and protection against clinical influenza) after the administration of vaccine in large antigenic mass in a single injection by the subcutaneous route in young adult males in crowded population groups. . . .