Moderna's mRNA flu shot earns FDA approval after rollercoaster review
Summary
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine called mRNA-1010 or mFLUSIVA for adults aged 50 and older. This is the first flu vaccine using mRNA technology to get FDA approval, following positive trial results and a unanimous advisory committee vote.Key Facts
- The FDA approved Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine for adults 50+ after trials with about 44,000 people.
- FDA advisors voted unanimously in June to approve the vaccine based on its safety and better effectiveness than existing flu shots.
- The vaccine uses mRNA technology, which allows faster production compared to traditional flu vaccines that take 6-8 months to make in chicken eggs.
- Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine also uses the mRNA platform, which is known for easy updates and quick manufacturing.
- The approval process faced challenges, including opposition from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is against vaccines and mRNA technology.
- A Trump appointee at the FDA initially refused to review the vaccine but was removed from the agency after controversy.
- The CDC advisory panel that guides vaccine recommendations is not currently functioning due to legal challenges involving appointments made by Kennedy.
- Without CDC panel guidance, doctors might be unsure about how to use the new vaccine in the upcoming flu season.
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