The Food and Drug Administration approves Moderna's mFlusiva, the first mRNA-based flu vaccine for adults.
The Food and Drug Administration approved mFlusiva, the first flu shot using mRNA technology, for adults aged 50 to 65 and those 65 and older. Developed by Moderna, the vaccine was found to be approximately 27% more effective than a standard flu shot in late-stage trials. While the vaccine offers faster manufacturing times than traditional methods, it faces some scrutiny due to previous skepticism regarding mRNA technology. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been a vocal critic of mRNA technology, previously canceling nearly $500 million in funding for mRNA research. Despite the approval, a federal judge has blocked the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices from convening, which may impact insurance coverage and public distribution. Moderna stated that mFlusiva will be available for this fall's flu season. The vaccine operates by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies, similar to the technology used in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.