Application of mRNA Vaccines in Children's Vaccination: Technical Advantages, Clinical Practice and Future Challenges

Area of Science:

• Pediatric immunology
• Vaccinology
• Public health

Background:

• Message RNA (mRNA) vaccines represent a novel platform for infectious disease prevention.
• Current pediatric applications are primarily focused on Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
• Expansion beyond COVID-19 requires comprehensive evaluation of efficacy and safety in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current pediatric uses of mRNA vaccines.
• To assess the efficacy and safety profiles of mRNA vaccines in children.
• To identify challenges for broader routine childhood immunization.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov up to May 2025.
• Inclusion of clinical studies involving mRNA vaccines in individuals aged 0-17 years.
• Keywords included "mRNA vaccine," "child," "infant," "adolescent," "paediatric," "safety," "immunogenicity," and "trial."

Main Results:

• mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) have shown effectiveness in specific pediatric age groups.
• Serious adverse events and deaths associated with these vaccines in children are rare.
• The majority of mRNA vaccine trials are conducted in adults, necessitating more pediatric-specific research.

Conclusions:

• mRNA vaccines provide rapid, targeted protection for children.
• Extensive longitudinal data and strengthened public science initiatives are crucial.
• Further investigation is required to fully integrate mRNA vaccines into routine pediatric prevention strategies.