From PhillyVoice · · 2m
Flu Season Guide: Vaccine Options
New mRNA flu vaccine available for adults 50+ as flu season approaches.
In brief
New mRNA flu vaccine available for adults 50+ as flu season approaches. The CDC recommends flu vaccines for most adults and children age 6 months and older, with a new mRNA vaccine approved for adults 50 and older. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
Flu Season Approaching
Flu season is near, here's a guide to available vaccines.
Vaccine Options
Several safe and effective flu vaccines are available this fall including a new mRNA shot for people 50 and older and a nasal spray for people who don't like needles.
Health Authorities Warn
Health authorities warn that in some western regions of the country, the 2026-27 flu season may be off to an early start.
CDC Recommendations
The CDC recommends flu vaccines for most adults and children age 6 months and older.
New mRNA Vaccine
One new option this year is mFLUSIVA, the first mRNA-based influenza vaccine approved by the FDA for adults age 50 and older.
Nasal Spray Vaccine
FluMist is a nasal spray vaccine approved for people age 2 through 49, which may be preferable to those who want to avoid a shot.
Vaccine Effectiveness
Vaccination consistently reduces the risk and severity of influenza illness, with this year's vaccines providing protection similar to or better than recent years.
High-Risk Groups
Vaccination is especially important for those 65 years and older, young children, pregnant people, people with chronic medical conditions and those with weakened immune systems.
Timing for Vaccination
Health authorities advise getting vaccinated by the end of October to ensure protection before flu activity becomes widespread.
Vaccine Updates
This year, all three components of the influenza vaccines were updated to better match the viruses expected to circulate during the 2026-27 flu season.
Special Considerations
People with egg allergies can receive any flu vaccine, even ones produced in eggs, and updated COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same clinic visit.
Seasonal Patterns
Influenza typically starts circulating during the fall and peaks between December and February, influenced by virus types and community immunity.
What Happens Next
People should check with their local pharmacy, healthcare provider or Moderna's online vaccine locator for mFLUSIVA availability as flu season approaches.
What matters most
The CDC recommends flu vaccines for most adults and children age 6 months and older, with a new mRNA vaccine approved for adults 50 and older.
