The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first mRNA-based flu vaccine. This approval introduces a new type of shot available to adults aged 50 and over who wish to protect themselves against the respiratory illness. Moderna made this announcement on Wednesday evening.

The introduction of this vaccine comes after significant debate and despite skepticism expressed by individuals such as RFK Jr. regarding mRNA technology. The new shot will likely be accessible at various retail locations in the upcoming weeks, according to Moderna.

A researcher at the Moderna headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2024. (Adam Glanzman/Bloomberg News/Getty Images)