Pfizer and BioNTech's Combined Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine Moves to Phase 3 Trials After Positive Early Results

Combined shot expected to simplify immunization practices and boost vaccination rates; Phase 3 trials to start in coming months following robust immune responses in early trials.

Pfizer and BioNTech's combined flu and COVID-19 mRNA vaccine is moving forward to Phase 3 trials after positive results in the early Stage 1/2 trials.
The trials demonstrated robust immune responses to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and two strains of influenza, with a safety profile comparable to the standalone COVID-19 vaccine.
The combined vaccine could simplify immunization strategies by covering two respiratory diseases with a single injection, potentially boosting vaccination rates worldwide.
The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Pfizer and BioNTech a Fast Track Designation for this vaccine, expediting its review process.
Pfizer's competitors, including Moderna and Novavax, are also working on similar combination flu and COVID-19 vaccines.