For the approaching winter, vaccination against both the flu and the coronavirus is recommended – and often administered at the same time. In the future, only one suture could be needed – the German biotech company Biontech is now starting a clinical trial for a combined active ingredient against Covid-19 and flu.
The vaccine candidate combines the two companies’ already approved BA.4/BA.5-omicron booster with an influenza vaccine candidate from Pfizer, which is currently being tested in a Phase 3 clinical trial.
Biontech boss: “Efficient opportunity”
180 people in the US between the ages of 18 and 64 will enter the Phase 1 trial of the combination vaccine, and the first subject was already vaccinated this week. “By combining both indications in one vaccine approach, we want to provide people with an efficient way to immunize against two serious respiratory diseases,” said Biontech chief executive Ugur Sahin.
Vaccine combination already recommended
A combination of vaccinations against Covid-19 and flu is already possible. According to the recommendation of the Ministry of Health, it is not necessary to keep a time interval between them. It is emphasized that the co-administration of Covid vaccines with other so-called live or dead vaccines is possible and also useful.
However, for this, different vaccination sites currently have to be chosen, for example one vaccination in the right upper arm, the other in the left upper arm.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
