Moderna’s Updated Covid-19 Vaccine Approved By MHRA

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Moderna’s revamped Covid-19 vaccine, designed specifically to combat the JN.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2. This new version will be offered through the NHS’s autumn vaccination drive, focusing on individuals at the highest risk of severe illness from Covid-19. For the first time, the Spikevax JN.1 vaccine will also be available for private purchase by those who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the NHS programme.

Darius Hughes, UK General Manager of Moderna mentioned, “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 hospitalisation, alleviating strain on the NHS. 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 programme, as well as being available to purchase privately for the first time.”