Every flu season looks a little different, and this fall, you have more flu vaccine choices than ever: 

• A new mRNA-based option (mFLUSIVA) for adults 50 and older
• Enhanced-dose vaccines still recommended for those 65+
• An updated formula that targets the H3N2 subclade K strain behind last season’s especially rough flu season

A new mRNA option joins the lineup

For the first time, you can get a flu shot built on mRNA technology — the same approach used in some COVID-19 vaccines. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Moderna’s mFLUSIVA for adults 50 and older, marking a genuine milestone in flu prevention.

It’s fully approved for people ages 50 to 64, and it has accelerated approval for adults 65 and older while researchers continue to study its benefits in that age group.

In clinical trials, mFLUSIVA was about 26.6% more effective than traditional flu vaccines at preventing lab-confirmed influenza illness, and it produced a stronger immune response in older adults. Severe side effects were rare, similar to what’s seen with existing flu vaccines.

Why does this matter beyond this season? mRNA technology can potentially be updated faster to match circulating strains, which may lead to better-matched vaccines down the road. For now, though, current guidance still points seniors toward the enhanced-dose vaccines they’re familiar with.

What’s recommended if you’re 65 and older?

If you’re 65 or older, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend one of three enhanced-dose flu vaccines: Fluzone High-Dose, Fluad, or Flublok. These vaccines are designed to produce a stronger immune response in older adults, whose immune systems don’t always respond as robustly to standard-dose vaccines.

No evidence shows that one of these three vaccines works better than the others. That means you can choose whichever one is available at your pharmacy or clinic without worrying you’re missing out.

This season’s formula targets a tougher strain

Vaccine makers update the flu shot recipe every year to match the strains most likely to circulate. The 2026–27 vaccines target the influenza A (H3N2) subclade K strain, the same strain behind the 2025-26 season’s severe “super flu” activity.

Like previous seasons, the updated trivalent shot covers two influenza A strains (H1N1 and H3N2) plus an influenza B/Victoria lineage strain, giving you broad protection against the viruses expected to circulate this fall and winter.

Timing and access: What you need to know

Aim to get your flu shot by late October for the best protection heading into peak flu season. But if you miss that window, it’s still worth getting vaccinated later.

Medicare Part B covers one flu shot per season at no cost to you when it’s given by a participating provider. Availability can vary by location and vaccine type, so check with your pharmacy or clinic to confirm what’s in stock.

Other fall vaccines worth a conversation with your provider

Flu season overlaps with a few other respiratory illnesses, and fall is a smart time to check in on your overall vaccination picture. Here are a few to ask your provider about:

• RSV vaccine: Recommended for adults 75 and older, as well as adults 50–74 who are at higher risk of severe illness
• COVID-19 booster: Updated shots targeting the JN.1 XFG subvariant are now available for eligible adults
• Pneumococcal and shingles vaccines: If it’s been a while since your last dose — or you’ve never had one — it’s worth reviewing your history with your healthcare provider.

Your flu shot questions, answered

What is mFLUSIVA, and who can get it?

mFLUSIVA is the first FDA-approved mRNA-based flu vaccine in the United States. It’s fully approved for adults ages 50 to 64 and available under accelerated approval for adults 65 and older.

Is the new mRNA flu vaccine better than traditional flu shots?

In clinical trials, mFLUSIVA was about 26.6% more effective than traditional flu vaccines at preventing lab-confirmed influenza illness. Even so, current CDC guidance still recommends enhanced-dose vaccines for adults 65 and older.

What flu vaccine is recommended for adults 65 and older?

The CDC recommends one of three enhanced-dose vaccines for this age group: Fluzone High-Dose, Fluad, or Flublok. No single option is proven to work better than the others, so you can choose whichever is available.

When should I get my flu shot this fall?

Late October is the target for best protection through peak flu season, but getting vaccinated later is still worthwhile if you miss that window.

Does Medicare cover flu shots?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers one flu shot per season at no cost to you when it’s administered by a participating provider.

What other vaccines should I consider this fall?

Along with your flu shot, ask your provider about the RSV vaccine, an updated COVID-19 booster, and whether you’re due for a pneumococcal or shingles vaccine.

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