FDA Approves Moderna’s mFlusiva mRNA Flu Vaccine for Adults 50+
At a glance
- FDA approved Moderna’s mFlusiva flu vaccine in August 2026.
- Vaccine available for adults aged 50 and older at U.S. pharmacies.
- Distribution includes CVS Health and limited supply at Walgreens.
Moderna’s mFlusiva vaccine received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August 2026, marking a new option for influenza prevention in adults aged 50 and above.
Following FDA approval, mFlusiva became available for reservation through FFF Enterprises’ BioSupply system for the 2026-2027 flu season. Distribution to pharmacies began shortly after, with CVS Health offering the vaccine and Walgreens expecting to receive limited quantities.
The vaccine is designed for active immunization against influenza A and B in individuals 50 years and older. mFlusiva uses mRNA technology and does not include live or inactivated influenza virus or egg protein, which differentiates it from some traditional flu vaccines.
Adults between 50 and 64 years old, especially those with chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, obesity, or chronic lung disease, may particularly consider receiving mFlusiva. The vaccine is also available to adults aged 65 and older, but comparative clinical evidence with high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines for this group is still being collected.
What the numbers show
- FDA approval date: August 2026.
- Eligible age group: 50 years and older.
- Distribution for the 2026-2027 flu season.
Pharmacies across the United States have begun offering mFlusiva to eligible adults. The vaccine can be reserved through established distribution channels, including FFF Enterprises’ BioSupply network, with availability confirmed at CVS Health and anticipated at Walgreens in limited amounts.
Insurance coverage for mFlusiva varies. Most private insurers are expected to cover the vaccine, and Medicare is required to cover FDA-approved seasonal flu shots. However, Medicaid coverage remains uncertain due to the absence of a recommendation from the CDC’s advisory committee.
mFlusiva’s introduction adds an mRNA-based option to the range of influenza vaccines available for older adults. Its composition does not include egg protein, which may be relevant for individuals with specific allergies or dietary restrictions.
Further data on the comparative effectiveness of mFlusiva for adults over 65 is still being gathered, particularly in relation to other flu vaccines designed for this age group. Health authorities and distribution partners continue to monitor uptake and supply as the 2026-2027 flu season approaches.
* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.