UK becomes first country in world to approve ‘Moderna vaccine targeting original Covid and Omicron variant’

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has authorised Moderna’s new product that is said to target the original Covid strain and the Omicron variant.

The dose, known as mRNA-1273.214, is an updated version of the Moderna vaccine which is already in use for first, second and booster doses.

Dr Paul Burton, Moderna’s chief medical officer, previously said that the new jab can boost a person’s antibodies to such high levels that it may only be needed annually.

Stephane Bancel, chief executive officer at Moderna, described it as a “next generation Covid-19 vaccine” which will play an “important role in protecting people in the UK from Covid-19” over the winter.

Bancel said: “We are delighted with the MHRA’s authorisation of Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron, our next generation Covid-19 vaccine.

“This represents the first authorisation of an Omicron-containing bivalent vaccine, further highlighting the dedication and leadership of the UK public health authorities in helping to end the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This bivalent vaccine has an important role to play in protecting people in the UK from Covid-19 as we enter the winter months.”

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