By Blessing Nweke
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Moderna’s mRNA-based flu vaccine, becoming the first seasonal influenza shot using messenger RNA technology to receive federal approval. The decision marks a major step forward in vaccine development and expands the use of mRNA technology beyond COVID-19 vaccines.
The newly approved vaccine, called mFlusiva, is designed for adults aged 50 and older. It received traditional approval for people ages 50 to 64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and above, with additional studies required to confirm long-term benefits among older adults.
Moderna’s vaccine was evaluated in a large late-stage clinical trial involving more than 40,000 participants. Results showed that the mRNA flu shot provided stronger protection against influenza compared with a standard-dose flu vaccine and produced stronger immune responses among older adults.
Unlike traditional flu vaccines, which often rely on egg-based production methods and require months of preparation, mRNA technology allows scientists to update and manufacture vaccines more quickly. Health experts say this could become valuable as influenza viruses continue to change from year to year.
The approval is also an important milestone for Moderna as the company works to expand beyond its COVID-19 vaccine business. The company is developing additional mRNA-based vaccines, including possible combination shots targeting both flu and COVID-19.
Although the approval represents a scientific breakthrough, the vaccine’s widespread availability may take time due to seasonal vaccine planning and contracting schedules. Moderna expects the product to play a larger commercial role in future flu seasons.
Public health officials say the new vaccine provides another tool to help protect older adults, who face a higher risk of serious complications from influenza.
Original article
Comments