FDA approves mRNA flu vaccine 27% more effective for adults over 50

CDC officials say flu activity is rising earlier than usual, and the new RNA flu vaccine is now available for people 50 and older. Dr. Ann Falsey, an infectious‑disease specialist at the University of Rochester, explained how the shot works and why it matters for older adults. The vaccine uses messenger‑RNA technology, similar to the COVID shots, to teach the body to recognize a key protein from the flu virus.

Traditional flu vaccines are made by growing pieces of the virus in chicken eggs or cell cultures. The process takes six to nine months because scientists must predict which strains will circulate each winter. The RNA approach is much faster. Once the target protein is chosen, it can be produced quickly and scaled up, allowing manufacturers to respond more swiftly to emerging strains. A recent study found the RNA vaccine is about 27 % more effective than the standard‑dose flu shot used in the 2023‑24 season.

The FDA approved the RNA vaccine only for those 50 and older because that was the group studied in clinical trials. Older adults are at higher risk of serious flu complications, so the focus is on protecting the most vulnerable. The vaccine can cause a slightly higher rate of soreness and mild fatigue, but the benefits outweigh the side effects for this age group. Dr. Falsey emphasized that the technology is safe and effective, though it may feel a little more uncomfortable after the injection.

Health experts urge people 50 and older to get the shot as soon as it’s available. Early vaccination can reduce hospitalizations and severe illness. The FDA may expand approval to younger people later, but for now the RNA flu shot is a new option for older adults to stay protected as flu activity climbs.