Canada First to Approve Moderna's mRNA Flu and Combo Flu-COVID-19 Vaccines
Health Canada has authorized Moderna's mRNA influenza vaccine and its combination flu-COVID-19 vaccine for adults 50 and older, making Canada the first country to approve both. However, the shots will not be available in pharmacies for the current respiratory virus season.
Health Canada has authorized two new vaccines developed by Moderna: an mRNA vaccine for influenza known as mFLUSIVA, and a combination mRNA vaccine targeting both flu and COVID-19 called mCOFLU. Both vaccines are designated for adults aged 50 years of age and older. With this decision, Canada becomes the first country to authorize both of these specific Moderna vaccines.
Moderna's mRNA flu shot was previously approved in the United States in August, while the combination vaccine received approval in Europe last April.
Despite the authorizations, Moderna announced that neither vaccine will reach pharmacies in time for the current respiratory virus season.
In the meantime, public health guidance remains focused on existing options. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization continues to recommend non-mRNA flu shots for everyone six months of age and older. For adults aged 65 and older, the committee recommends a higher-dose version of the flu vaccine. The advisory body also strongly advises COVID-19 vaccination for anyone 65 years of age and older, as well as for residents of long-term care facilities.