SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA Spike Protein Vaccine

This vaccine contains instructions for making a harmless version of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which helps the immune system learn to recognize the virus. It is used to prevent COVID-19 and reduce the risk of complications, severe illness, and death. Protection is not immediate and usually takes about two weeks to develop.

The vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional. The number of doses and the interval between doses depend on the specific product, your age, previous COVID-19 doses, and current public health recommendations. Follow the schedule provided by the vaccination clinic, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether more doses are recommended.

Common side effects include pain, redness, or swelling where the injection was given, as well as tiredness, headache, muscle or joint pain, chills, fever, and nausea. These effects usually go away within a few days. An OTC pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help if it is safe for you, but check with your pharmacist first.

Rarely, an allergic reaction can occur within minutes of vaccination; seek emergency care for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, or faintness. Very rarely, the vaccine may cause inflammation of the heart muscle or the sac around the heart, especially in adolescent and young adult males; seek prompt medical care for persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. Seek care also for new weakness or numbness, difficulty walking, or other sudden neurologic symptoms, and report any serious or persistent reaction to your clinician.

No specific medication interactions are known, although formal interaction studies have not been conducted for every product. People taking medicines that suppress the immune system should discuss their vaccination plan with their doctor because responses may be reduced. Do not receive this vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any vaccine ingredient, and tell the vaccination provider about prior vaccine reactions, current illness, and other medical conditions.