The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has recently approved Zapomeran (Kostaive), a new mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, for the immunisation of adults aged 18 years and older. The approval was granted on 2 January, 2026.

Zapomeran is administered as a single 0.5 mL booster dose via injection into the upper arm muscle. The vaccine uses self-amplifying messenger RNA (sa-mRNA) technology, which prompts the body’s cells to temporarily produce the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, enabling the immune system to recognise and combat the virus in the future.

Julian Beach, Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, MHRA commented on the approval. She said, “Patient safety remains the regulator’s highest priority. Also, the approval of Zapomeran offers an additional vaccine option for adults to prevent COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its safety will continue to be closely monitored as its use expands."

Some of the very common side effects, reported in more than one in 10 people, include pain or tenderness at the injection site, tiredness, chills, fever, muscle and joint pain, headache and dizziness. According to the MHRA, most side effects are mild and resolve within a few days.

The MHRA reiterated that the safety and effectiveness of Zapomeran will remain under continuous review and encouraged individuals experiencing suspected side effects to consult a healthcare professional and report them through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.