The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends FluMist Quadrivalent vaccine should not be used for the 2016-2017 influenza season.-AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca confirmed that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided its interim recommendation on the use of FluMist Quadrivalent Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (FluMist Quadrivalent) in the US for the 2016-2017 influenza season. The updated guidance states the vaccine should not be used in any setting, based on CDC vaccine effectiveness data from the last three influenza seasons in the US, which indicated FluMist Quadrivalent did not demonstrate statistically significant effectiveness in children 2-17 years of age.

The US CDC effectiveness data for 2015-2016 season contrast with studies by AstraZeneca as well as preliminary independent findings by public health authorities in other countries. These findings demonstrate FluMist Quadrivalent was 46-58% effective overall against the circulating influenza strains during the 2015-2016 season. As influenza vaccine effectiveness varies from season to season, it is evaluated in annual observational studies. The CDC states that when there is a good match between the strains in the vaccine and those that circulate during the influenza season, vaccines are typically 50-60% effective. AstraZeneca is working with the CDC to better understand its data to help ensure eligible patients continue to receive the vaccine in future seasons in the US.

Comment:U.S. sales of FluMist in 2015 totaled $206 million.