Moderna's new and improved COVID vaccine produced positive trial results

By Tomi Kilgore

MRNA-1283 showed higher immunity than its Spikevax vaccine against Omicron and original COVID strains

Moderna Inc. announced Tuesday that its next-generation COVID vaccine produced better immune results in a late-stage trial than its previous vaccines, and will be a key part of its combination therapy against flu and COVID-19.

The biotechnology company (MRNA) said mRNA-1283 has met the primary endpoints of a Phase 3 trial, as it demonstrated a higher immune response against the Omicron BA.4/BA.5 and original virus strains of COVID-19, when compared with its Spikevax and mRNA-1273.222 vaccines.

"MRNA-1283 is a critical component of our combination vaccine against flu and COVID-19, mRNA-1083, and this milestone gives us confidence in our ability to bring this much needed vaccine to market," said Chief Executive Stéphane Bancel.

Moderna's stock rose 1.1% in premarket trading, to put it on track for a fourth-straight gain.

The company said that the mRNA-1283's improved immunity response was importantly more acute in participants of the trial that were over 65-years old, which is the age population at most risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

The most common side effect of the vaccine was pain at the site of injection, while the most common adverse side effects included headaches, fatigue, muscle pain and chills.

The stock has rallied 11% year to date through Monday, while the S&P 500 has gained 9.4%.

-Tomi Kilgore

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03-26-24 0832ET

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