The updated formula for Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine generates a 16-fold increase in antibodies that neutralize the intended SARS-CoV-2 variant target among recipients, according to a press release from the company. The vaccine, which has a brand name of mNEXSPIKE, is an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine targeting the LP.8.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2. The findings come after additional preliminary data showed Moderna’s 2025-2026 formula of its original COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax, generated greater than an 8-fold increase in LP.8.1-neutralizing antibodies across the same age groups. The mNEXSPIKE formula was approved by the FDA in May, the first endorsement since the regulator tightened requirements for COVID-19 vaccines. “Both of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccines for the 2025-2026 season have demonstrated strong immune responses against today’s top circulating COVID-19 strains,” the company said.