The Real Story: What to know about the recently approved mRNA flu vaccine

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Flu season typically picks up by December and peaks in winter, according to the CDC.

If you’re planning on getting a flu shot soon, the FDA recently approved a new flu shot this year, but it's different from others. That’s because it's made with mRNA, the same science behind most COVID vaccines.

Dr. Jim Harris, a board-certified immunology specialist, has done extensive vaccine research, including on mRNA vaccines.

“The flu vaccines that we've used in the past come from technology that's probably 80 years old, and this is the brand-new technology with mRNA vaccines that only came out with the COVID vaccines, but now it's available for the flu or influenza,” said Harris.

He says this new one seems to be much more effective.

“The new vaccines actually introduce a small amount of genetic material into the cell, and you develop an immunity based on exposure to that particular genetic material,” said Harris.

He says it's critical for people over 65 to get a flu shot because their age puts them at a higher risk. This new shot is available for adults over 50.

“The classic form is taking a virus, you kill it or inactivate it, and you base your vaccine on that. But it takes about six to eight months to produce that,” said Harris.

Dr. Harris also says with mRNA they can more quickly target the dominant flu strain of the season, unlike the old vaccine.

“With the mRNA, it's just a very quick procedure. It's very rapid. It can be done within just a few weeks to respond almost immediately to what's out there, and that's really critical for the high-risk patients,” said Harris.

Because it's so new, Harris says it’s not available everywhere. But in South Bend, Harris says places like Walgreens and CVS have it–so check before you go!

Like the COVID shot, Dr. Harris says you may experience reactions, fatigue, headaches, or muscle aches afterwards.