Hepatitis C vaccine: Interest and strategies used for vaccine candidates

Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus is associated with severe liver disease leading to liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. The recent introduction of highly effective antivirals with direct action against the virus has revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C. However, this tremendous success of modern medicine must be modulated by the continuing difficulty in eradicating the virus worldwide. Screening for treatment remains a very difficult task and the epidemic is progressing in some parts of the world. In addition, while direct-acting antivirals effectively eliminate the virus in infected individuals, they do not prevent re-infection if risk factors persist. They also do not completely eliminate the risk of continuing a fibrotic process and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. For all these reasons, the development of a prophylactic vaccine against hepatitis C remains a public health necessity. Several strategies are currently being followed to develop such a vaccine. One of them consists of combining it with the hepatitis B vaccine, a vaccine that has proven during the last thirty years its ability to reduce chronic liver disease induced by the hepatitis B virus, including hepatocellular carcinoma. A bivalent vaccine against hepatitis B and hepatitis C could contribute to the overall global plan against viral hepatitis called for by the World Health Organization. (C) 2021 l'Academie nationale de medecine. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.