Moderna claims that their new combined flu and Covid vaccine is more effective than administering the vaccines separately. This development increases the likelihood of receiving regulatory approval for distribution in NHS programs this year. Moderna’s existing Spikevax vaccine is already a part of NHS booster campaigns, but the new version, called mRNA-1083, also incorporates flu protection. Recent trials by Moderna have demonstrated that this dual vaccine prompts stronger immune responses to both viruses compared to receiving two distinct shots.
The trial included two groups, each consisting of 4,000 individuals aged 50 and older. Reported side effects, such as sore arms and fatigue, were mild and typical for vaccinations. Moderna’s CEO, Stephane Bancel, expressed enthusiasm about the trial results, highlighting the convenience and reassurance provided by needing just a single injection.
Meanwhile, competitors like Pfizer and BioNTech are also in the process of testing their combined vaccines for flu and Covid, suggesting a growing trend towards multi-functional vaccinations in response to public health needs.
