Compositions and methods for treating viral infections

Abstract

The present disclosure provides compositions and methods useful for treating viral infections. As described herein, the compositions and methods are based on the development of immunogenic compositions that include an inactivated virus in combination with a non-ionic surfactant vesicle (NISV). In certain embodiments at least a portion of the antigen present in the composition is physically associated with the NISV. In certain embodiments the compositions are lyophilized and subsequently rehydrated after a period of storage. In certain embodiments the rehydrated compositions exhibit greater potency as compared to otherwise equivalent compositions that lack the NISV. In certain embodiments the lyophilized compositions are stored at temperatures in excess of 8° C. prior to rehydration. In certain embodiments, the rehydrated compositions exhibit greater potency as compared to otherwise equivalent compositions that lack the NISV and that were also stored at temperatures in excess of 8° C. prior to rehydration. In certain embodiments the antigen is taken from a licensed vaccine and the administered dose of antigen is less than the standard human dose for the licensed vaccine.