The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved the first mRNA-based influenza vaccine, marking a milestone for the technology, which was first widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The vaccine, developed by Moderna, is approved for adults ages 50 to 64 and those 65 and older, who face the highest risk of severe illness from the flu. Moderna said it expects the shot to be available for eligible patients during the 2026-27 flu season.

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