Green Light for First Combo Vaccine Against Covid and Flu - Europe Approves First Combined Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine by Moderna

A single vaccine could soon protect against both flu and COVID-19. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved the first combination jab, called mCombriax, developed by Moderna. Until now, people needed two separate shots to guard against these illnesses each year.

The new vaccine uses mRNA technology to target both the coronavirus and three strains of influenza. Tests involved over 8,000 adults aged 50 and above, proving it works just as well as two individual vaccines. Side effects, such as pain at the injection site, fatigue, headaches, or mild fever, typically last only two to three days.

Older adults face serious risks from flu and COVID-19 infections every year. A combined vaccine would simplify protection and reduce pressure on healthcare systems by cutting the number of annual jabs needed.

The EMA's approval moves the vaccine closer to formal EU-wide authorisation by the European Commission. Once granted, each member state will then decide whether to offer it to their populations. As of now, no country has announced plans to introduce mCombriax.

The vaccine's approval follows a recommendation from the EMA on 27 February 2026. Final EU marketing authorisation is still pending, meaning no decisions have yet been made by individual governments. If adopted, the jab could streamline immunisation for millions of older adults across Europe.