sa-mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Approved in Japan

CSL and self-amplifying mRNA (sa-mRNA) pioneer Arcturus Therapeutics today announced that Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) granted approval and authorization for their updated sa-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, KOSTAIVE®.

According to the September 13, 2024, press release, KOSTAIVE is the world's first commercially available sa-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for adults 18 and older.

Unlike conventional mRNA vaccines, sa-mRNA vaccines instruct the body to make more mRNA and protein to boost the immune response.

"We believe KOSTAIVE® has the potential to change the paradigm for COVID-19 vaccines in Japan," commented Jonathan Edelman, M.D., Senior Vice President, Vaccines Innovation Unit, CSL. 

"Today's approval further demonstrates CSL's promise to pursue, develop, and deliver new innovative treatment options to protect public health."

Meiji Seika Pharma, CSL's exclusive partner in Japan, will begin vaccine distribution next month.

Following a peak in July 2024, MHLW data indicates COVID-19 cases in Japan have rapidly declined as of early September.

To avoid diseases such as Japanese encephalitis (IXIARO®), measles, and rubella, the U.S. CDC recommends speaking with a travel vaccine expert at least one month before visiting Japan.

 CSL, including three businesses: CSL Behring, CSL Seqirus, and CSL Vifor, provides lifesaving products to patients in more than 100 countries and employs 32,000 people.