Millions of Americans are preparing to get vaccinated with the new mRNA vaccine for seasonal flu. The first mRNA flu vaccine, developed by Moderna, has already been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people aged 50 and older.
“The flu remains a significant public health challenge, and mFluSIFA offers an important new option for older Americans.”
Stéphane Bancel – CEO of Moderna
Moderna’s data show a 27% higher efficacy compared to conventional flu vaccines. This figure was derived from a company study involving more than 40,000 adults over the age of 50.
The authorities’ approval was based on the results of a Phase 3 clinical trial involving nearly 41,000 adults aged 50 and older across 11 countries. It was also based on a separate study of nearly 3,000 adults aged 65 and older in the United States.
“This approval also reflects the ongoing potential of our mRNA platform to help address major public health challenges through continuous scientific innovation.”
Stéphane Bancel
This vaccine has not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) as it is currently under review. However, it recently approved a combination mRNA vaccine—mCombriax—designed to protect against both the flu and the coronavirus for people aged 50 and older. This vaccine has not been approved in the U.S.
Watch the report by Nasia Ioannou:
