What to Know: FDA Authorizes New Flu Shot

August 10, 2026

Ahead of the winter flu season, the FDA recently approved the first mRNA vaccine for older adults.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Background:  The vaccine, known as mFLUSIVA, is authorized for adults between 50 and 64. The FDA also granted accelerated approval for use in adults 65 and older. The manufacturer, Moderna, expects to have the vaccine available for eligible populations in the U.S. for the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season.
• New tool:  Similar to Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine, mFLUSIVA is designed via an mRNA platform. Traditional vaccines to fight the flu have been based on three approved production technologies (egg-based, cell culture-based, recombinant technology).
• Big picture:  The flu vaccine is an important tool to prevent serious illness and hospitalization. During the 2024–2025 flu season, there were a reported 45,000 deaths and 710,000 hospitalizations nationwide.
• By the numbers:  Since September 2025, there have been 146,494 confirmed flu cases and 25,190 hospitalizations in Pennsylvania.
• Quotable:  “Flu remains a significant public health challenge, and mFLUSIVA provides an important new option for America's seniors,” said  Stéphane Bancel, Moderna CEO, in a statement.

HAP continues to monitor the latest public health developments and provide updates to members. Additional information is available online.