# 6 | WHO Influenza Vaccine Update 2026–2027 | GMJ Briefing

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated recommendations for the 2026–2027 Northern Hemisphere seasonal influenza vaccine composition.In this GMJ Briefing, we summarize:• Inclusion of A(H3N2) J.2.4.1 “Subclade K”• Adjustment to the influenza B component• Updated zoonotic preparedness measures, including a new Candidate Vaccine Virus (CVV) for A(H9N2)• Implications for national immunization programmes and health system preparednessInfluenza causes approximately 1 billion infections annually worldwide, with up to 650,000 respiratory deaths. WHO updates vaccine composition twice annually to ensure optimal protection against evolving strains.This episode provides a concise, evidence-based overview for clinicians, policymakers, and public health professionals.Official WHO source: https://www.who.int—The Georgian Medical Journal (GMJ) Podcast provides structured analysis of major global health developments relevant to clinical practice, research, and health policy.