2026–27 flu season begins amid new vaccine options and rollout uncertainty

FDA approved Moderna’s mFlusiva on August 5 for adults 50+, making it the first FDA-approved mRNA influenza vaccine, but availability, CDC guidance, insurance coverage, and product-choice questions remain unsettled. CDC supports vaccination in September–October and enhanced products for adults 65+; Wisconsin and Vermont guidance reinforces vaccination by mid- to late October, coadministration, and access. New comparative-protection reporting does not establish superior clinical outcomes or change recommendations.