## Japan Approves Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Targeting Omicron Variant Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare has authorized CSL and Arcturus Therapeutics' modified self-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccination for use against the JN.1 strain. The vaccine will be promoted in Japan by Meiji Seika Pharma. ### Enhanced Protection Against New Variants The modified vaccine has been tailored to provide improved defense against the JN.1 subvariant of Omicron. It is intended as a booster dose for people who have already finished their primary vaccination series. ### Clinical Trial Results The vaccine's effectiveness was evaluated in a clinical trial involving over 1,000 persons. The results demonstrated that the updated vaccine significantly increased antibody levels against the JN.1 strain compared to the original vaccine. ### Safety and Side Effects The vaccine's safety profile was consistent with the original vaccine. The most commonly reported side effects included injection site pain, fatigue, and headache. ### Distribution in Japan Meiji Seika Pharma will be accountable for distributing the vaccination in Japan. The organization has a vast distribution network and experience in delivering vaccines. ### Importance of Vaccination COVID-19 vaccines have shown to be essential in preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and mortality. The modified vaccination provides increased defense against the JN.1 strain, contributing to the ongoing fight against the pandemic. ### Additional Resources * [Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare](https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/) * [CSL](https://www.csl.com.au/) * [Arcturus Therapeutics](https://www.arcturusrx.com/) * [Meiji Seika Pharma](https://www.meiji-seika-pharma.co.jp/english/)
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