What’s the Latest: Health Canada approves Moderna’s combined COVID, flu shot for some
Health Canada approved Moderna’s combined influenza and COVID-19 vaccine, as well as its mRNA flu vaccine, for use among adults aged 50 and older. This makes Canada the first country to approve both vaccines, which were confirmed for use following recent authorisations in the United States and Europe.
Health Canada will engage with Canadian health authorities and immunisation partners to determine the future availability of mFLUSIVA and mCOFLU for adults aged 50 and over. Canada is the first country to approve both the mRNA flu vaccine and the combined influenza and COVID-19 vaccine.
Health Canada has approved Moderna’s combined influenza and COVID-19 vaccine, mCOFLU, and its standalone flu shot, mFLUSIVA, for adults aged 50 and over. Moderna will collaborate with Canadian health authorities to determine the future availability of these vaccines in the market.
What remains unclear — It is uncertain when the combined influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will be available to Canadians aged 50 and older.
Health Canada approves Moderna’s combined flu and COVID-19 vaccine for adults over 50
Health Canada has approved two vaccines from Moderna: the combined influenza and COVID-19 vaccine, mCOFLU, and the mRNA flu vaccine, mFLUSIVA. These shots are authorised for use among adults aged 50 and older, expanding options for seasonal respiratory protection.
Moderna stated that the approval marks a significant milestone, with CEO Stéphane Bancel commenting, “Health Canada’s authorisations of mFLUSIVA and mCOFLU today mark another important step in bringing the benefits of mRNA technology to seasonal respiratory vaccination.” Canada is the first country to approve both vaccines, following their earlier approvals in the United States and Europe.
The timeline for when Canadians over 50 can receive these vaccines remains unspecified. Moderna indicated it would collaborate with Canadian health authorities to facilitate future availability. WTX News has sought additional information from the company concerning market rollout.
Experts highlight the advantages of mRNA vaccines over traditional flu vaccines, noting their capacity for rapid response. According to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, “After injection, the cells in your arm muscles pick up the mRNA, make the protein, and display it on the cell’s surface,” enhancing immunity.
Furthermore, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization has recommended that everyone from six months of age should receive this year’s non-mRNA flu shot. A higher-dose flu vaccine is advised for adults over 65, who often need a stronger immune response due to natural age-related decline. The committee also advocates COVID-19 vaccination for individuals aged 65 and older and residents in care facilities.