U.S. FDA approves first mRNA flu shot from Moderna

 Why in News?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Moderna’s mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine, mFluSiva, making it the first messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccine approved for the prevention of seasonal influenza.

Key Highlights

• The vaccine is approved for adults aged 50 years and above.
• It has received:
  • Traditional approval for adults aged 50–64 years.
  • Accelerated approval for adults aged 65 years and above.
• The approval marks a major milestone in the application of mRNA technology beyond COVID-19 vaccines.

How mFluSiva Works

• The vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology to instruct the body’s cells to produce influenza antigens.
• These antigens stimulate the immune system to generate protective antibodies and immune memory.
• If the vaccinated person is later exposed to the influenza virus, the immune system can quickly recognize and neutralize it.

mRNA Vaccine Technology

• Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic instructions that direct cells to produce a specific viral protein (antigen).
• The immune system recognizes this protein as foreign and develops an immune response without exposure to the live virus.
• The mRNA does not alter human DNA and is naturally broken down after delivering its instructions.

Source: TH

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