Update on the development of enterovirus 71 vaccines.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is an etiological agent that causes severe neurological complications in children. EV71 outbreaks have occurred throughout the Asia-Pacific region, posing a severe global public health threat; however, no specific therapeutic strategy exists for treating EV71-infected children. AREAS COVERED Five manufacturers have produced inactivated EV71 whole virus vaccines in mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore, which have completed Phase III (mainland China) and Phase I (Taiwan and Singapore) clinical trials. Various EV71 vaccine candidates are being researched in animal models, including live-attenuated virus vaccine, recombinant VP1 vaccine, VP1-based DNA vaccine, synthetic peptide vaccine and virus-like particle vaccine. In this review, the present situation is summarized, and feasible improvements to the EV71 vaccine are explored. EXPERT OPINION Although inactivated EV71 vaccines are safe, efficient and elicit strong immune responses to protect adults, children and infants against infection, the quality control of production is critical.