ABC News reports that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new, lower-dose version of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.

This updated vaccine is designed to provide continued protection against current variants of the virus while potentially reducing side effects due to its lower dosage.

The approval comes as part of ongoing efforts to adapt vaccination strategies to the evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The lower-dose formulation is intended for use as a booster shot for adults, aligning with recommendations from health authorities to maintain immunity against emerging variants.

Moderna’s new vaccine maintains the mRNA technology used in its original formulation but delivers a reduced amount of active material, which studies suggest may still elicit a robust immune response.

The FDA’s decision was based on clinical trial data demonstrating the vaccine’s safety and efficacy at the lower dose.

This development follows similar approvals for updated vaccines from other manufacturers, as public health officials aim to streamline vaccination campaigns and address vaccine hesitancy by offering options with potentially fewer side effects.

The vaccine is expected to be available at pharmacies and healthcare facilities in the coming weeks.