Antwerp, Belgium – In a significant step forward for preventative healthcare, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recommended approval of a first-of-its-kind vaccine offering dual protection against COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, according to Reuters. This development offers a potentially simpler vaccination schedule for individuals at higher risk of severe illness from both viruses.
The vaccine, developed by Moderna and known as “Spikevax Xtra,” utilizes mRNA technology to stimulate the body’s immune response to proteins found in SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and several strains of influenza. It is designed as a single-dose regimen for individuals aged 50 years and older. This combined approach could improve vaccination rates and reduce the burden of respiratory illnesses, particularly during the fall and winter months.
The EMA’s recommendation is based on a study involving 8,000 participants. The research demonstrated that those who received the combined “Spikevax Xtra” vaccine developed higher levels of antibodies compared to participants who received a traditional influenza vaccine or Moderna’s original COVID-19 vaccine, “Spikevax.”
Moderna’s mRNA technology has already proven effective in combating COVID-19, and the company has been expanding its research into other infectious diseases. In July 2025, Arab48 reported that Moderna announced its seasonal influenza vaccine showed 26.6% greater effectiveness than a GSK vaccine in adults aged 50 and older. This success paved the way for further development of combination vaccines.
The EMA noted that the composition of the “Spikevax Xtra” vaccine will be updated periodically to align with circulating strains of both viruses. The European Commission is currently reviewing the EMA’s recommendation for final marketing authorization within the European Union, as reported by Elaph and Reuters. The availability of a combined vaccine could streamline public health efforts and offer enhanced protection against two significant respiratory threats.
According to Alkhaleej, the EMA recommended the approval on Friday, February 27, 2026.
