The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Moderna's mRNA-based flu vaccine, the first influenza jab to use the messenger RNA technology behind its COVID-19 vaccine. The approval marks a significant shift in flu prevention, extending the mRNA platform beyond COVID-19 and offering a new option for older adults, who face higher risks from seasonal influenza, ahead of the upcoming flu season.

The vaccine has received full approval for adults aged 50 to 64 in time for the 2026-2027 flu season. For those aged 65 and over, it has been granted accelerated approval, meaning it can already be used while Moderna carries out a further study to confirm how effective it is in this older age group.