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APHA CEO: mRNA flu vaccine could speed production and avoid egg-allergy issues
Summary
Dr. Georges Benjamin told Montgomery County media that an mRNA-based flu vaccine could shorten production time, allow faster reformulation if the virus mutates, and reduce egg-allergy concerns — potentially useful for local vaccination planning.
Asked whether Montgomery County could use a forthcoming mRNA flu vaccine, Dr. Georges Benjamin said the technology could simplify and accelerate influenza vaccine production and help avoid egg-related allergies.
"This will minimize all those processes. It will allow us to very, very quickly, change the composition of the vaccine, should the virus mutate," Benjamin said, describing the limits of egg-based production and the benefits of mRNA techniques learned during COVID. He added, "All the stories you hear about the risks from mRNA vaccine are just not true."
County officials did not announce an immediate plan to switch product lines; the remarks were framed as an expert perspective on potential future tools. The county's health team said it will continue to offer traditional clinics and keep the public informed about FDA decisions and availability for school clinics.
