What is the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine?

Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted contains the Omicron JN.1 subvariant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and Matrix-M adjuvant. The saponin-based adjuvant is made from extracts of the bark of the Soapbark tree native to Chile. It is added to enhance the immune response of the vaccine recipient. The spike protein is produced in insect cells.

It is authorized for emergency use in people age 12 years or older as a two-dose primary series for previously unvaccinated individuals (whether or not they are immunocompromised), with the doses given at least 3 to 8 weeks apart. Previously unvaccinated people age 65 years and older and previously unvaccinated people age 12 years and older who have moderate or severe immunocompromise should receive an additional dose 6 months after dose 2 (minimum interval 2 months). People with moderate or severe immunocompromise may receive additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine (minimum interval 2 months) as determined by their healthcare team, their personal preference, and specific circumstances. 

Individuals age 12 years through 64 years who have had one or more doses of any previous authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine formulation are recommended to receive only one dose of the current 2024–2025 Novavax formulation. People age 65 years and older and people age 12 years and older with moderate or severe immunocompromise who have received one or more doses of a previous season’s COVID-19 vaccine and receive a dose of the 2024–2025 Formula Novavax vaccine should receive an additional dose of any 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine 6 months (minimum interval 2 months) following the first dose. Those with moderate or severe immunocompromise may receive additional doses as determined by their healthcare team, their personal preference, and specific circumstances.