Intradermal Influenza Vaccination — Can Less Be More?

Authors:
  • JMJohn R. La Montagne
    John R. La Montagne
  • AFAnthony S. Fauci
    Anthony S. Fauci
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Abstract
The current shortfall in anticipated doses of vaccine for the upcoming influenza season1 makes the reports by Belshe et al.2 and Kenney et al.3 in this issue of the Journal particularly timely. These studies raise the possibility of using alternative routes of immunization (e.g., intradermal, as opposed to intramuscular, administration) with smaller doses of vaccine as a means of “stretching” available doses of influenza vaccine in times of shortages. In addition, the studies indirectly raise provocative issues regarding the potential effect of these alternative routes of immunization in targeting specialized cells of the immune system to enhance the immunogenicity of certain vaccine antigens, particularly in populations such as the elderly and those with chronic diseases, who may not have a robust response to antigenic challenge.

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