Vaccine Administration

Healthcare providers who administer the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (2023-2024 Formula) to individuals ages 6 months through 11 years should ensure the correct volume of the vaccine (0.25 mL) is withdrawn from the vial and administered to the recipient. Discard vial and excess volume after extracting a single dose.

For additional information, see FDA Announcement and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (2023-2024 Formula) Healthcare Provider Fact Sheet (fda.gov)

Vaccine Administration

Proper vaccine administration is critical to ensure that vaccination is safe and effective. CDC recommends that all health care personnel who administer vaccines receive comprehensive, competency-based training on vaccine administration policies and procedures BEFORE administering vaccines. Comprehensive, skills-based training should be integrated into existing staff education programs such as new staff orientation and annual education requirements. A free vaccine administration e-Learn is available that offers continuing education for health care personnel, including CME, CNE, CEU, CPE, CPH, and CHES.

Review Immunization History

Reviewing and assessing a patient’s immunization history should be done at every health care visit to help determine which vaccines may be needed.

Assess for Needed Immunizations

Use the current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) immunization schedule to determine what recommended vaccines are needed based on the patient’s immunization history.

Screen for Contraindications and Precautions

Screening for contraindications and precautions can prevent adverse events following vaccination. All patients should be screened for contraindications and precautions prior to administering any vaccine, even if the patient has previously received that vaccine.

Educate the Patient

Health care professionals should be prepared to provide comprehensive vaccine information.

Prepare the Vaccine(s)

Proper preparation is critical for maintaining the integrity of the vaccine during transfer from the vial to the syringe.

Administer the Vaccine(s)

Each vaccine has a recommended administration route and site, which are based on clinical trials, practical experience, and theoretical considerations.

Document the Vaccination(s)

Health care providers are required by law to record certain information in a patient’s medical record.

Guidance for Planning Vaccination Clinics Held at Satellite, Temporary, or Off-Site Locations

Guidance for assisting with jurisdictional planning and implementation of satellite, temporary, or off-site vaccination clinics by public and private vaccination organizations. The guidance focuses on clinical considerations for planning a vaccination clinic, including vaccine storage, handling, administration, and documentation.

Resource Library

Access web-based trainings, videos, checklists, and references related to vaccine administration.

Five healthcare professionals smiling.

A self-paced vaccine administration course that provides comprehensive training using videos, job aids, and other resources