Just yesterday, Moderna Inc. released optimistic outcomes from its late-stage trial of its mRNA-1010 flu vaccine. In the future, this innovation might even yield a single combination shot aimed at treating both the influenza virus and COVID-19. The recently completed phase three trial enrolled over 40,000 adults aged 60 and older. This study measured the effectiveness of the experimental mRNA-1010 vaccine against a standard competitor vaccine. This study was supported by the company’s dedication to improving vaccination rates for influenza, particularly in seniors.
Participants in the trial were randomized to their treatment assignment. They received either a one-time dose of Moderna’s investigational mRNA-1010 vaccine or a typical flu vaccine. Results showed that Moderna’s vaccine triggered a greater immune response than every vaccine available today. Among adults aged 65 years and older, the mRNA-1010 vaccine looked particularly good. That made it 27.4% better than the usual vaccine.
The trial’s safety data aligns with findings from previous studies, reinforcing confidence in the vaccine’s profile. Moderna’s flu shot, as a standalone product, is expected to be submitted for regulatory review later this year. Meanwhile, the company is preparing to resubmit its application to FDA for a combined flu and COVID vaccine.
Stephen Hoge, Moderna’s head of research and development, expressed optimism about the company’s direction regarding flu vaccines. “I believe, as relates to flu, I think we’ve got a pretty clear path,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of this advancement in public health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently put out an alarming statistic. More than 600,000 Americans were hospitalized from flu-related activities last year. This staggering statistic further underscores the urgent need for improved vaccines. The steep toll taken by the last flu season exposed terrifying holes in our defenses.
Moderna’s combo jab is meant to make the vaccination process easier and more intuitive for both patients and healthcare providers. To give more time back to physicians and nurses is one major goal of this company. Together, this strategy will increase vaccination rates and reduce expenditures associated with flu prevention.
In addressing regulatory pathways, Moderna is engaging closely with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to understand and meet its requirements effectively. The company is very much committed to public health alignment of our vaccines. It puts a premium on getting ahead of the curve approval for its innovative, creative solutions.
Stephane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, described the trial’s success as “a significant milestone in our effort to reduce the burden of influenza in older adults.” This announcement is a reflection of the company’s larger ambition to improve healthcare outcomes with its next-generation vaccine platform.