FDA Approves mRNA Flu Vaccine for Adults 50+ Ahead of 2026 Season

3 articles · Updated · The Seattle Times · Aug 31

Adults 50 and older will soon have a new flu-shot option after the FDA approved an mRNA vaccine, fully clearing it for ages 50-64 and granting accelerated approval for those 65 and up.
Researchers expect the shot to generate stronger antibody responses than standard vaccines, though experts say it may cause more mild side effects and could be less widely available at first.
Traditional flu shots are already arriving at pharmacies and doctors' offices, and studies show flu vaccines cut the risk of flu-related doctor visits by 40% to 60%; doctors still say any vaccine is better than none.
CDC guidance remains unchanged despite a recent Trump executive order on children's flu vaccination, with the agency recommending annual shots for everyone 6 months and older, ideally in September or October.
Australia's relatively moderate flu season and a good strain match offer some reassurance, but doctors say the Northern Hemisphere outlook remains uncertain after last year's fast-spreading variant.