Novavax available at MU Health Care clinics as COVID-19 community level remains steady

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

MU Health Care is offering the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine to those 18 years and older who have not already received a vaccine.

MU Health is offering a limited supply of Novavax doses to the public. A special vaccination clinic will be held from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesday at South Providence Medical Park.

The vaccines are available by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling (573) 771-CARE.

Novavax was authorized for emergency use by the FDA on July 13. In clinical trials, Novavax was found to be 90% effective at preventing mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19.

Novavax is not available to people who already received Pfizer or Moderna. MU Health Care vaccine co-chair and family medicine physician Dr. Laura Morris said Novavax is different than the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna.

“Instead of mRNA, this vaccine contains a coronavirus protein formulated so that it cannot cause COVID-19 disease," Morris said. "It works much like a traditional flu vaccine."

However, much like Pfizer and Moderna, Novavax requires two doses. The second dose will be available on Sept. 13.

The Columbia/Boone County Health Department announced Friday that the area is still in a medium or "yellow" community level for COVID. Under this level, the CDC recommends people stay up-to-date on vaccines, avoid people who have tested positive and isolate if they suspect they have symptoms of COVID.