mRNA-1273.167 at a glance
Class
COVID-19 messenger RNA vaccine.
Purpose
Active immunisation to help prevent COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Administration
Given by intramuscular injection by a trained healthcare professional, usually into the upper arm.
What is mRNA-1273.167 used for?
The selected product is licensed for active immunisation against COVID-19 in people aged 6 months and older. Actual availability and eligibility are determined by official vaccination recommendations and may be narrower than the product licence.
Prevention of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Use as an age-appropriate COVID-19 vaccine when recommended by the national programme.
How does mRNA-1273.167 work?
The vaccine delivers temporary mRNA instructions inside lipid nanoparticles. Cells near the injection site produce the JN.1 spike protein, which is recognised as foreign and stimulates antibody and T-cell responses. The mRNA does not enter the cell nucleus, alter DNA or reproduce itself.
How to take mRNA-1273.167
A trained healthcare professional gives the vaccine into a muscle, usually in the upper arm. Tell vaccination staff beforehand about allergies, previous reactions, fainting with needles, fever or severe illness, bleeding disorders, anticoagulants, and immune-suppressing conditions or treatment.
The vaccine is not taken by mouth and food does not form part of its administration.
Remain available for observation after vaccination as directed by vaccination staff.
Delay vaccination if advised because of an acute severe fever or infection; a minor infection or low-grade fever does not usually require postponement.
mRNA-1273.167 side effects
Common or expected effects
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Tiredness, headache, fever or chills
- Muscle or joint aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tender or enlarged lymph nodes, often in the armpit
- In young children, irritability, sleepiness or reduced appetite
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe allergic reaction, including breathing difficulty, collapse, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Chest pain, breathlessness or palpitations suggesting myocarditis or pericarditis
- A severe or rapidly worsening reaction requiring urgent clinical assessment
mRNA-1273.167 in pregnancy
mRNA-1273.167 can be used during pregnancy. Direct pregnancy data for this JN.1 product are limited, but substantial observational evidence for the original Spikevax has not identified increased adverse pregnancy outcomes; first-trimester evidence is less extensive, with no increased miscarriage risk seen. Pregnancy does not by itself determine current programme eligibility, so discuss eligibility or specific concerns with a midwife, GP or vaccination professional.
mRNA-1273.167 while breastfeeding
The vaccine can be given while breastfeeding. Harm to the breastfed infant is not expected, and observational experience with the original Spikevax has not identified adverse effects in breastfed infants. Specialist advice is appropriate if the infant is unwell or there are particular clinical concerns.
mRNA-1273.167 interactions
Clinically important medicine interactions are limited, but vaccination staff should know about all medicines, treatments and recent vaccinations.
Inactivated seasonal influenza vaccines
They may be administered at the same visit; use separate injection sites.
Recombinant adjuvanted shingles vaccine
It may be given at the same visit, although fever, chills, fatigue and muscle aches may occur more often; use separate injection sites.
Anticoagulants
Intramuscular injection may cause additional bleeding or bruising, so administration precautions may be required.
Common questions about mRNA-1273.167
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Does mRNA-1273.167 alter DNA?
No. The mRNA remains outside the cell nucleus, does not interact with DNA and is broken down after temporary use.
Who is mRNA-1273.167 licensed for?
The selected product is licensed for people aged 6 months and older, but national programme eligibility may be narrower and can change.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.