A Single Jab for Flu and COVID? EU Says Yes

EU advisers back Moderna’s combo flu and COVID vaccine, setting up a pivotal decision that could reshape seasonal immunization

2 Mar 2026

Moderna is close to securing approval in the European Union for its combined influenza and Covid-19 vaccine after the European Medicines Agency’s scientific committee recommended the shot for use in adults aged 50 and older.

A final decision from the European Commission is expected in the coming weeks. If granted, the authorisation would mark the first approval in Europe of a dual mRNA vaccine targeting two major respiratory viruses in a single injection.

The product, known as mRNA-1083 and branded mCombriax, is designed to protect against seasonal influenza and Covid-19 through one appointment. According to the EMA, late-stage trials showed immune responses that were non-inferior to those generated when the flu and Covid vaccines were administered separately.

The recommendation reflects broader changes in the vaccine market. Demand for standalone Covid shots has fallen sharply since the height of the pandemic, prompting manufacturers to adapt their portfolios and seek efficiencies from established mRNA platforms.

Moderna has positioned the combination vaccine as a way to simplify seasonal immunisation campaigns and improve uptake among older adults, who remain at higher risk of complications from respiratory infections. A single visit approach could also ease logistical pressures on health systems during winter peaks.

The regulatory path has not been uniform across regions. In the US, Moderna has faced additional data requirements for combination respiratory vaccines, including a withdrawal and resubmission of filings. That more complex review process has increased the importance of Europe as a potential early launch market.

Rival groups, including Pfizer, are developing their own combination respiratory vaccines as they compete for procurement contracts with national health authorities. Early approval in the EU could strengthen Moderna’s position in negotiations ahead of future vaccination seasons.

Manufacturing and safety oversight will remain under scrutiny. Combination vaccines are more complex to produce, and post-authorisation monitoring will be closely watched for any unexpected adverse signals that could affect confidence in mRNA-based products more broadly.

The Commission’s decision will indicate how quickly European regulators are prepared to endorse integrated vaccines as a new model for seasonal respiratory protection.