Moderna announces MHRA authorized updated COVID-19 vaccine

Moderna announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, MHRA, has authorized its updated COVID-19 vaccine targeting the JN.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2. Following the MHRA decision, doses will be available for eligible groups as part of the NHS autumn vaccination program, which is prioritized for use in people at greatest risk of serious illness from COVID-19. “As the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve, COVID-19 continues to present a serious health risk. Updated vaccines targeting circulating strains play a vital role in helping to protect those most at risk from severe illness and hospitalization, alleviating strain on the NHS,” said Darius Hughes, UK General Manager of Moderna. “With today’s approval from the MHRA, we are pleased that our updated COVID-19 vaccine will be available to the UK public, both through the NHS autumn vaccination program, as well as being available to purchase privately for the first time.”