Moderna, Inc. (MRNA) stock surged 5.15% in pre-market trading on Monday following the announcement of positive Phase 3 results for its experimental influenza vaccine. The biotechnology company reported that its mRNA-1010 vaccine demonstrated superior efficacy compared to licensed standard-dose seasonal flu shots in adults aged 50 years and older.

According to the late-stage study, Moderna's mRNA-1010 achieved a stringent superiority criterion with a relative vaccine efficacy (RVE) of 26.6% in the overall study population. The vaccine showed strong efficacy against various influenza strains, including A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and the B/Victoria lineages. Notably, in participants aged 65 years and older, mRNA-1010 demonstrated an RVE of 27.4%, highlighting its potential benefits for the elderly population.

The safety and tolerability profile of mRNA-1010 were consistent with previous studies, with most adverse reactions being mild. Moderna plans to present these findings at an upcoming medical conference and engage with regulators on filing submissions for mRNA-1010. This breakthrough in influenza vaccine development could potentially strengthen Moderna's position in the vaccine market, driving investor optimism and contributing to the significant pre-market stock price increase.