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News
The WHO has announced its recommended viral strains for influenza vaccines targeting the 2027 southern hemisphere season. Following a global review of surveillance data, the recommendations cover both egg-based and cell/recombinant-based vaccine formulations. Experts also flagged zoonotic influenza viruses as an ongoing pandemic concern, with candidate vaccine viruses already selected as a precautionary measure.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its annual recommendations for the composition of influenza vaccines to be used in the 2027 southern hemisphere flu season. These guidelines are critical for national regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical manufacturers worldwide, helping ensure vaccines are well-matched to the strains most likely to circulate — and thus offer the strongest protection against severe illness and death.
Between February and August 2026, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and influenza B viruses all circulated globally. Influenza A dominated in most regions, while influenza B took the lead in Northern and Western Africa, North America, and Eastern Asia.
Quick Facts:
Why it matters: WHO's biannual vaccine composition recommendations are the backbone of global flu preparedness — keeping vaccines one step ahead of a constantly evolving virus and laying the groundwork for a swift response if a pandemic-capable strain emerges.
