Name of the Procedure:

Moderna Covid-19 Vaccine (Low Dose) Administration - Booster
Common name(s): Moderna Booster Shot, Low Dose Covid-19 Booster
Technical term: mRNA-1273

Summary

This procedure involves receiving a low-dose booster shot of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. The booster is designed to enhance and prolong immunity against the Covid-19 virus, especially variants of concern.

Purpose

The procedure aims to augment and extend the protection initially provided by the primary vaccination series. The goals include reducing the risk of Covid-19 infection, preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death, particularly in individuals who may experience waning immunity over time.

Indications

• Individuals aged 18 and older who have completed their primary vaccination series with Moderna or another approved Covid-19 vaccine.
• People at higher risk of severe Covid-19 due to age, underlying health conditions, or occupational exposure.
• Patients who have experienced a significant time lapse (typically 6 months or more) since their last Covid-19 vaccine dose.

Preparation

• Confirm eligibility for the booster dose based on the timing of the previous vaccine doses.
• Ensure the patient is not currently experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 or any other acute illness.
• Advise the patient to maintain good hydration and eat normally before the procedure.
• No mandatory fasting or extensive preparatory tests are required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient checks in at the designated vaccination site and provides required identification and health information.
2. A healthcare professional verifies the patient’s eligibility and records the necessary details.
3. The patient is seated, and the injection site (usually the upper arm) is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
4. Using a sterile syringe, 0.25 mL (the low-dose booster amount) of the Moderna vaccine is administered intramuscularly.
5. After the injection, the patient remains at the site for a 15-30 minute observation period to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.

Duration

The entire procedure from check-in to post-vaccination monitoring typically takes about 30-45 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in various settings such as vaccination clinics, pharmacies, hospitals, or outpatient clinics.

Personnel

The booster shot administration involves:

• Registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs)
• Pharmacists
• Medical assistants
• Occasionally supervised by a physician

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever, fatigue, or muscle aches Rare risks:
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Myocarditis or pericarditis in younger individuals

Benefits

• Enhanced immunity against Covid-19
• Reduced risk of severe disease outcomes
• Increased protection against new variants of the virus Benefits typically become noticeable within two weeks after administration.

Recovery

• Monitor for side effects for the first 24-48 hours.
• Normal activities can usually be resumed immediately, although some may experience mild flu-like symptoms.
• Follow-up is generally not required unless there are prolonged or severe side effects.

Alternatives

• Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine booster
• Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) Covid-19 vaccine booster
• Natural immunity from previous infection (though less recommended due to variable protection levels)

Pros and cons:

• Moderna booster offers robust and wide-ranging protection but may have a slightly higher risk of certain side effects in specific groups compared to other boosters.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel a slight prick or pressure at the injection site. Afterward, they may experience mild discomfort, akin to flu symptoms, that generally resolves within a few days. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if necessary. Most individuals return to normal activities shortly after receiving the booster.