How does the new mRNA flu vaccine work to prevent illness?

The new mRNA flu vaccine teaches your body how to fight off the flu before it even arrives.

Imagine you're playing a game where you have to beat up the flu monster. The mRNA vaccine is like giving you a map and instructions on how to build a superhero so you can beat the monster.

mRNA stands for message RNA, which is like a tiny message that tells your body what to do. When you get the vaccine, this message goes into your cells. Your cells read the message and start making proteins, which are little fighters that look just like parts of the flu virus.

Your immune system notices these fighters and starts training to recognize them. Now, when the real flu comes along, your body is already prepared. It can quickly make more fighters or call in backup to stop the flu before you feel sick.

It's like practicing for a test, the harder you practice, the easier it is to pass when the big day arrives!