Novavax's Vaccine Research Reveals Fewer Side Effects Compared to mRNA Alternatives

Reduced Reactogenicity of Novavax's COVID-19 Vaccine Compared to mRNA

The preliminary findings from the SHIELD-Utah study reveal promising insights into Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine. Conducted in Utah, the study examined the vaccine's effects among healthcare workers and first responders during the vaccination period from September to December 2024. Results indicate that Novavax's Adjuvanted vaccine targeting the JN.1 strain exhibited significantly lower frequencies and severities of reactogenicity symptoms compared to the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine.

This investigation is critical as vaccine hesitancy is often influenced by concerns regarding side effects. According to Dr. Sarang K. Yoon, Principal Investigator at the University of Utah Health, the findings provide valuable data in the ongoing conversation about vaccine choices and their implications.

Key Findings of the SHIELD-Utah Study

In the study, it was reported that participants who received the Novavax vaccine experienced an average of 1.7 symptoms post-vaccination, while those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine reported an average of 2.8 symptoms. Notably, 43.8% of Pfizer-BioNTech recipients faced at least one significant adverse reaction of Grade 2 or higher, contrasting sharply with the 24.2% of Novavax recipients. Furthermore, local reactogenicity events were found to be 12.5% lower in Novavax recipients as well.

The effects on daily activities were also noteworthy. Participants who received Novavax’s vaccine reported fewer hours of reduced activity, averaging 0.7 hours for missed work and 0.8 hours for diminished productivity. In comparison, Pfizer-BioNTech recipients missed an average of 1.4 hours of work and experienced a 2.4-hour decrease in productivity.

Insights from Novavax Leadership

Dr. Ruxandra Draghia-Akli, Executive Vice President at Novavax, emphasized that these results underscore the favorable tolerability of their COVID-19 vaccine. The company’s vaccine utilizes protein-based nanoparticles along with its proprietary Matrix-M® adjuvant, aiming for a balance of efficacy and safety. The new research and development pipeline for Novavax further intends to expand on these foundational technologies and enhance its offerings.

About the Study Design

The SHIELD-Utah study was structured as a prospective, interventional trial where participants had the option to choose between the Novavax (219 participants) and Pfizer-BioNTech (369 participants) vaccines. Following vaccination, participants were prompted to complete questionnaires assessing reactogenicity and the overall impact of symptoms on daily life, two days and seven days post-vaccination. The diverse participant pool included physicians, nurses, and medical assistants, revealing a comprehensive snapshot of the vaccine impact across various healthcare roles.

Conclusion

As the findings from the SHIELD-Utah study circulate within the scientific community, the implications for public health decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination strategies are clear. With tangible evidence showing that Novavax's vaccine may offer a more tolerable vaccination experience, healthcare providers and recipients can engage in informed discussions about vaccine options moving forward. Future publications will further delve into these findings and their potential impact on vaccination campaigns and public health policies.