Moderna, currently one of three companies granted emergency use authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its COVID-19 vaccine, is continuing its efforts in improving the vaccine. Currently, the vaccine must be stored in cold temperatures; either between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit for up to 30 days or -4 F for up to 7 months. Moderna is working, however, on an improved formula to extend the refrigerated shelf life of the vaccination so it may be stored up to 90 days rather than 30. Stephen Hoge, Moderna’s President, stated, “That might be a breakthrough that really matters in 2022 in Africa and across lower- and middle-income countries.” The company is also working to combine the COVID-19 vaccine with the annual flu vaccine.
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