Moderna’s new vaccine (mNexspike [COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA]) represents a significant step forward in the development of next-generation coronavirus vaccines, the Associated Press reported. The innovative design of mNexspike allows for a much lower dose, about one-fifth of the dosage used in the current vaccine (Spikevax), a reduction achieved by refining the vaccine’s target to elicit a more focused immune response.
The vaccine is not a replacement for the current Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The lower-dose vaccine is intended to be a second option.
mNexspike is approved for use in individuals who have been previously vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine and are 65 years of age and older or 12 to 64 years of age with at least one underlying condition that puts them at high risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19.