FDA Approves New, Boosted Flu Vaccine

The Food and Drug Administration approved a new type of flu vaccine called Fluad that uses a compound to help stimulate the patient’s immune system, NBC News reported. 

Fluad contains MF59, an adjuvant made out of an oil-in-water mixture that includes squalene, an oily nutrient produced by the liver, and some preservatives. The vaccine was made specifically for people who are 65 and over.

Seniors are the most vulnerable segment of the population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC estimate that 80 to 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths are from people in that age group.

U.S. government officials have been cautious about using MF59 in vaccines because so many Americans are fearful of vaccines — and especially of new ingredients. But they are widely used in Europe and Canada. Fluad has been in use since 1997 and the FDA says it's been shown to be safe.

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