CPT® Code 91304

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) vaccine, recombinant spike protein nanoparticle, saponin-based adjuvant, 5 mcg/0.5 mL dosage, for intramuscular use

The CPT® Code 91304 refers to a specific vaccine designed to provide immunity against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for the disease known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This vaccine is classified as a recombinant spike protein nanoparticle vaccine, utilizing a saponin-based adjuvant to enhance the immune response. The dosage of this vaccine is 5 mcg per 0.5 mL, and it is intended for intramuscular administration. Unlike other types of COVID-19 vaccines, such as mRNA vaccines (e.g., Moderna and Pfizer) and viral vector vaccines (e.g., Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca), this vaccine does not contain any genetic material. Instead, it contains the spike protein of the coronavirus itself, which is produced outside the body using a baculovirus to infect moth cells. This process allows for the replication of the spike protein, which is then purified and combined with a saponin adjuvant derived from the soapbark tree. This adjuvant plays a crucial role in enhancing the immune response, enabling a smaller dose of the spike protein to effectively stimulate the immune system. Upon intramuscular injection, the vaccine prompts the immune system to generate antibodies and T-cell immunity against SARS-CoV-2, thereby providing protection against COVID-19. It is important to note that this code specifically reports the supply of the vaccine, while the administration of the injection is reported separately.