Moderna s experimental COVID-19 vaccine that combines its original shot with protection against the omicron variant appears to work, the company announced Wednesday.

COVID-19 vaccine makers are studying updated boosters that might be offered in the fall to better protect people against future coronavirus surges.

Modernas preliminary study results show people given the combination shot experienced an eight-fold increase in virus-fighting antibodies capable of targeting the omicron mutant, the company announced.

Todays COVID-19 vaccines all are based on the original version of the coronavirus. Theyre still providing strong protection against severe disease, hospitalization and death even after the appearance of the super-contagious omicron variant especially if people have had a booster dose.