COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines and myopericarditis

Globally, vaccination against COVID‐19 has prevented countless infections, hospitalisations and death and represents the most successful intervention in combating the pandemic caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Utilisation of existing mRNA vaccine technology has allowed for rapid development of highly immunogenic and effective vaccines. Myopericarditis can occur as an adverse effect of COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination, albeit at significantly lower rates than those that occur during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Higher rates are seen in adolescent males, usually within 1–5 days of receiving the second vaccine dose. Although most cases are self‐limited and respond to first‐line treatment, refractory cases can occur, with a limited evidence base on which to guide management. Here, we present a brief review of COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines and associated myopericarditis including risk factors, proposed mechanism, and treatment including management strategies for refractory disease.