Moderna said its updated mRNA-1283 COVID-19 vaccine candidate showed 92% efficacy against the JN.1 subvariant in a late-stage trial involving about 18,000 participants. The company said the result came from a global phase 3 study designed to test protection against the currently dominant strain.

According to the Reuters report, the trial data suggest the revised formulation could strengthen protection as the virus continues to evolve. The findings add to ongoing efforts by vaccine makers to adapt boosters to newer variants rather than relying on older formulations.

The company has not yet detailed when the updated shot could be submitted for broader regulatory review or how it would be distributed if authorized. As with any single trial result, the figures will need to be assessed alongside full safety data, duration of protection, and real-world effectiveness.

Public health experts have continued to stress that vaccination remains an important tool for limiting severe illness, especially for older adults and people with higher medical risk. The latest results, if confirmed, could help guide the next round of COVID-19 vaccine updates.