A new combination COVID-influenza vaccine from Moderna has shown promising results in phase 3 trials. The experimental vaccine, mRNA-1083, produced a better immune response compared to other vaccines in the trials. This vaccine combines Moderna’s candidate for seasonal influenza (mRNA-1010) and their next-generation COVID-19 vaccine candidate (mRNA-1283).
Francesca Ceddia, the chief medical affairs officer at Moderna, expressed optimism about the potential of this combination vaccine to revolutionize the management of respiratory illnesses. The convenience of dual protection in a single shot and the enhanced immunity it offers could lead to improved compliance and public health outcomes.
In the phase 3 trial, which included two groups of 4,000 adults each, mRNA-1083 demonstrated statistically significantly higher immune responses against three influenza virus strains and SARS-CoV-2. The vaccine’s safety profile was deemed acceptable, with common adverse reactions being injection site pain, fatigue, myalgia, and headache.
Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo, the Florida State Surgeon General, raised concerns about combining this new vaccine with existing ones, citing safety issues. However, other experts like immunologist Amrie Grammer and Dr. Marc Siegel praised the efficacy and potential benefits of the combination vaccine.
Only about 23% of U.S. adults are up-to-date on COVID vaccines, according to CDC data, highlighting the importance of innovative approaches like the Moderna combination vaccine. Looking ahead, Moderna plans to present the phase 3 clinical data at a medical conference and engage with regulators on next steps.
It is worth noting that other pharmaceutical companies like Novavax and Pfizer-BioNTech are also conducting clinical trials for SARS-CoV-2/influenza combination vaccines. The convenience of a single combination vaccine visit could lead to improved vaccination rates, especially among older adults who are most at risk.
In conclusion, the positive results from Moderna’s phase 3 trials of the combination COVID-influenza vaccine offer hope for a more effective and convenient approach to respiratory disease prevention. As research and development in this area continue, the potential benefits of such innovative vaccines could have a significant impact on public health outcomes.