SARS-CoV-2 bivalent mRNA vaccine

The SARS-CoV-2 bivalent mRNA vaccines are updated COVID-19 vaccines that contain messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding the spike protein from both the original Wuhan-Hu-1 strain and one or more variant strains of SARS-CoV-2 (such as Omicron BA.1 or BA.4/5). These vaccines are designed to broaden immune protection by inducing neutralizing antibodies against multiple circulating variants of concern (VOC), including those with mutations in the spike protein that can evade immunity from earlier monovalent vaccines[1][2]. The mechanism of action involves delivery of lipid nanoparticle-formulated mRNA into host cells, which then produce viral spike proteins to stimulate an immune response—primarily through antibody production and T-cell activation[6][8]. Bivalent formulations have demonstrated increased breadth and magnitude of neutralizing antibody responses compared to monovalent boosters and have been shown to enhance protection against infection with current variants such as Omicron sublineages[1][8]. Primary indications include prevention of COVID-19 in individuals aged 12 years and older.

Brand names

Spikevax

Other names

bivalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccinebivalent SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccineCOVID-19 bivalent boosterCOVID19 bivalent boosterCOVID 19 bivalent booster