Novavax COVID Vaccine: A New Alternative This Season

As the leaves begin to fall, anticipation grows for the arrival of seasonal viruses like flu, RSV, and of course, COVID-19. Fortunately, a new player in the vaccination scene is catching attention—Novavax. This season, along with updated mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, Novavax’s protein-based shot is gaining traction for those seeking alternatives to mRNA technology.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, highlights the significance of having diverse vaccine options. While mRNA vaccines have been the frontrunners, the Novavax vaccine offers a fresh approach. It leverages protein-based technology, a method often tagged as “traditional,” though it’s not without its own innovations. Unlike mRNA vaccines, which use genetic instructions to provoke an immune response, Novavax incorporates spike proteins expressed by a genetically engineered insect virus. This is paired with an immune booster, an adjuvant, to enhance its efficacy.

This season, the difference between the offerings is subtle but noteworthy. Moderna and Pfizer vaccines target the more recent KP.2 strain of the virus, while Novavax aims at KP.2’s predecessor, JN.1. Despite these variations, all vaccines are expected to guard against severe illness and hospitalization effectively.

As the vaccine landscape evolves, a key consideration is accessibility. While insurance usually covers these vaccines, those without can expect out-of-pocket expenses, with the protein-based Novavax priced at approximately $191. The US government’s Bridge Access Program was designed to offer free COVID vaccinations for uninsured individuals but faced an untimely conclusion due to funding challenges.

For individuals contemplating which vaccine to choose, options depend largely on personal preference and availability. Novavax is particularly enticing for those wary of mRNA vaccines, thanks to its different technological foundation. Additionally, early studies suggest that Novavax might provoke fewer side effects, but this is not yet definitive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a neutral stance, not favoring one vaccine over another.

Despite the controversy around vaccine-induced myocarditis, Novavax appears to share a similar safety profile to its mRNA counterparts. As Dr. Adalja notes, assessing these vaccines’ real-world efficacy against evolving strains remains paramount.

To receive Novavax, individuals can visit major pharmacies such as CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and more, as well as use Novavax’s online vaccine locator.

As we brace for the colder months and the accompanying respiratory challenges, having an array of vaccination modalities ensures broader protection and choice, crucial for public health resilience.