Moderna has recently announced groundbreaking results from a late-stage trial of their combination vaccine targeting both Covid-19 and the flu. This innovative approach has shown to be more effective than existing standalone shots for these viruses, setting Moderna apart from rivals such as Pfizer and Novavax.
The introduction of combination shots by Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax aims to simplify how people can protect themselves against respiratory viruses that typically surge at the same time of the year. This added convenience is crucial as vaccine uptake against Covid-19 remains low in some populations. Moderna’s CEO, Stephane Bancel, highlighted the potential benefits of combination shots in reducing the burden on pharmacists and the broader U.S. healthcare system.
The Science Behind Moderna’s mRNA Combination Shot
Moderna’s mRNA-1083 combines the company’s vaccine candidate for seasonal influenza with a newer version of its Covid shot. Positive results from separate phase three trials of the individual components have paved the way for the successful late-stage trial on the combination shot involving 8,000 patients. The study demonstrated “statistically significantly higher” immune responses against three strains of influenza and the Covid omicron variant XBB.1.5, showing promise for a more robust level of protection.
In addition to its efficacy, the safety and tolerability of Moderna’s combination shot have been deemed acceptable. Common side effects such as injection site pain, fatigue, muscle pain, and headache were mostly mild to moderate in severity. This bodes well for the widespread adoption of the vaccine once it enters the market.
Looking ahead, Moderna is also exploring combination shots targeting the flu and RSV, as well as a vaccine that covers Covid, flu, and RSV. Meanwhile, competitors like Pfizer and BioNTech, as well as Novavax, are also delving into combination vaccine development, albeit using different technological approaches.
Moderna’s groundbreaking combination vaccine represents a significant step forward in the fight against respiratory viruses. By addressing the need for a more streamlined and comprehensive approach to vaccination, this innovative solution has the potential to revolutionize how we protect ourselves against infectious diseases. As the field of vaccine development continues to evolve, it is clear that the future holds promising possibilities for combating a wide range of pathogens.