Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleStorm NewtonWednesday 22 April 2026 01:51 BSTRelated: Thousands of chickens killed and disposed off due to bird flu outbreakA groundbreaking trial for a new human bird flu vaccine, mRNA-1018 developed by Moderna, has commenced in the UK and US.The phase 3 study aims to proactively address the growing threat of the A(H5N1) strain, with experts warning of the potential for human-to-human transmission.Approximately 4,000 individuals, including 3,000 in the UK, are expected to enrol, with particular encouragement for poultry farmers and those in close contact with birds.The vaccine utilises mRNA technology, similar to Covid-19 jabs, and early trials showed it was generally well tolerated and induced a strong immune response.Researchers highlight the advantage of mRNA vaccines for their faster production and adaptability to new strains, offering a crucial tool for pandemic preparedness.In fullUK and US begin human bird flu vaccine trial to fight evolving virus threatThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in