Health Canada approves Moderna’s new influenza and combined flu-COVID vaccines

TORONTO — Health Canada has approved two new vaccines developed by Moderna, including an mRNA influenza vaccine and a combined influenza-COVID-19 vaccine, expanding the range of respiratory immunization options available to older Canadians.

The approvals, announced Thursday, November 5, apply to adults aged 50 and older.

The newly authorized products include Moderna’s mFLUSIVA influenza vaccine and mCOFLU, a combination vaccine designed to provide protection against both seasonal influenza and COVID-19 through a single injection.

The decision represents another development in the use of messenger RNA technology, which became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Moderna, Canada is the first country to authorize both vaccines. The company previously received regulatory approval for its influenza vaccine in the United States and its combination vaccine in Europe.

However, the manufacturer has confirmed that neither product will be available in Canadian pharmacies in time for the current 2026–27 respiratory virus season.

Existing influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will therefore remain the principal options for Canadians seeking immunization this fall and winter.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization continues to recommend annual influenza vaccination for Canadians aged six months and older, with enhanced influenza protection recommended for older adults.

The committee also strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccination for people aged 65 and older and residents of long-term care and other congregate living facilities.

The new approvals could provide additional vaccination options in future respiratory virus seasons, particularly for older adults at greater risk of complications from influenza and COVID-19.