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FDA approves Moderna's mRNA seasonal flu vaccine
abcnews.com • • business
Key Points:
- The FDA has approved Moderna's mRNA seasonal flu vaccine, mFLUSIVA, for use in people aged 50 and older starting with the 2026-2027 flu season.
- Clinical trials showed the mRNA vaccine reduced confirmed flu cases by 27% compared to the current standard vaccine in adults aged 50 to 64, with similar safety profiles but slightly more mild side effects.
- Moderna plans to collect data this winter comparing mFLUSIVA to the current high-dose vaccine recommended for those 65 and older to determine if approval for that age group will continue.
- The FDA initially declined to review Moderna's application but reversed its decision after Moderna agreed to conduct an additional study post-approval.
- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized mRNA vaccine technology and canceled federal funding for mRNA vaccine development, despite expert consensus on its safety and benefits in rapid vaccine production.
