A comprehensive insight on the challenges for COVID-19 vaccine: A lesson learnt from other viral vaccines

Abstract

The aim of this study is to comprehensively analyze previous viral vaccine programs and identify potential challenges and effective measures for the COVID-19 vaccine program. Previous viral vaccine programs, such as those for HIV, Zika, Influenza, Ebola, Dengue, SARS, and MERS, were evaluated. Paramount challenges were identified, including quasi-species, cross-reactivity, duration of immunity, revaccination, mutation, immunosenescence, and adverse events related to viral vaccines. Although a large population has been vaccinated, mutations in SARS-CoV-2 and adverse events related to vaccines pose significant challenges. Previous vaccine programs have taught us that predicting the final outcome of the current vaccine program for COVID-19 cannot be determined at a given state. Long-term follow-up studies are essential. Validated preclinical studies, long-term follow-up studies, alternative therapeutic approaches, and alternative vaccines are necessary.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• HIV
• Influenza
• Dengue
• Ebola
• Zika