Predetermination by infection and by vaccination of antibody response to influenza virus vaccines

The antibody orienting effects of prior infections with antigenic variants of influenza viruses were confirmed by studies with monovalent adjuvant vaccines and with polyvalent aqueous and adjuvant preparations. In either case, the predominant antibody response was of a "booster" type, directed against the major antigens of strains of original infection. It was shown that vaccination with appropriate strains, selected as antigenic prototypes, could orient or predetermine subsequent antibody response upon revaccination. Moreover, the effects of exposure by vaccination were found to be durable and to constitute a foundation upon which future antibody dividends could be accumulated. As a result, it seems feasible to induce by vaccination a more lasting broad composite antibody protection against influenza if appropriate preparations and schedules are used.