How effective is the combined Moderna vaccine for kids?

Question

Hello doctor,

I heard a new Moderna vaccine covers both COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. It sounds like a great solution. My children are five and seven years old, and they often get sick. When will this new vaccine be available for us? Given how usually my kids catch illnesses, having a vaccine that protects against both flu and COVID-19 would be a significant relief. How effective is this vaccine, and are there any age limitations or potential side effects we should know about? Kindly guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is commendable that you are staying updated on new vaccines, especially given your children's susceptibility to illness. Moderna’s combination vaccine, messenger RNA or mRNA-1083, is undergoing Phase 3 clinical trials. Regulatory approval and wider availability are targeted for 2025, so it is not yet accessible for public use, including children.

This vaccine offers simultaneous protection against COVID-19 (a respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2) and seasonal flu (a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses), potentially enhancing public health compliance and reducing respiratory illness burden.

Specific studies regarding children have not been specified, so it remains uncertain if and when this combination vaccine will be approved for younger age groups.

Common side effects include:

Local reactions at the injection site.
Headache.
Fatigue.
Chills.

As this combination vaccine is not yet approved for children, continue with current recommendations: ensure your children receive annual flu shots and follow the advised COVID-19 vaccination schedules.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.