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. 2025 Jul 18:14:507.
doi: 10.12688/f1000research.164227.3. eCollection 2025.

Micronutrient and protein-energy supplementation enhance vaccine responses in undernourished children: Evidence from a systematic review

Guillaume Ngoie Mwamba  1   2 , Michel Kabamba Nzaji  1   2 , Oscar Luboya Numbi  3 , Mala Ali Mapatano  4 , Paul-Samson Lusamba Dikassa  5
Affiliations

Micronutrient and protein-energy supplementation enhance vaccine responses in undernourished children: Evidence from a systematic review

Guillaume Ngoie Mwamba et al. F1000Res. .

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition impairs immune function and vaccine responses, particularly in low-income settings. This can lead to reduced seroconversion rates and compromised herd immunity in children. Nutritional interventions have been proposed to enhance vaccine immunogenicity, yet evidence remains scattered and context specific.

Objective: This systematic review assesses the impact of nutritional interventions-especially vitamin A, zinc supplementation, and protein-energy rehabilitation-on serological responses to routine childhood vaccines among malnourished children in low- and middle-income countries.

Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and WHO Global Health Library for studies published between 2000 and 2024. Eligible studies included randomized trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews reporting on nutritional supplementation and vaccine seroconversion outcomes in malnourished children.

Results: From 3,245 records, 42 studies met the inclusion criteria. Vitamin A supplementation improved measles vaccine seroconversion by 35%, especially among deficient children. Zinc enhanced responses to oral vaccines by 20%. Protein-energy rehabilitation significantly increased seroconversion rates for BCG and measles vaccines, particularly in children recovering from severe acute malnutrition.

Conclusion: Nutritional interventions improve vaccine immunogenicity among malnourished children. Integrated strategies combining immunization and nutrition services should be prioritized to address immunity gaps in vulnerable populations.

Keywords: Low- and Middle-Income Countries; Malnutrition; Micronutrients; Protein-Energy Supplementation; Seroconversion; Vaccine Immunogenicity; Vitamin A; Zinc.

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Conflict of interest statement

No competing interests were disclosed.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. PRISMA 2020 flowchart illustrating the study selection process.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.. Impact of Nutritional Interventions on Vaccine Immunogenicity.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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