Fact Check: Do mRNA Covid Vaccines Turn People Into 'Spike Protein Factories'?

The claim that mRNA Covid vaccines transform people into 'spike protein factories,' producing spike proteins for over a year, has been circulating online. This claim is based on a supposed study published on April 9, 2025, and has sparked concerns about the long-term effects of these vaccines. However, a thorough examination of the available scientific literature reveals that this claim is misleading and not supported by empirical evidence.

Firstly, it is important to understand how mRNA vaccines work. These vaccines use messenger RNA (mRNA) to instruct cells to produce a harmless piece of the 'spike protein' found on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This triggers an immune response, producing antibodies that protect against infection. The mRNA does not enter the nucleus of the cell and does not alter or interact with the recipient's DNA. This is a crucial point because it contradicts the claim that the vaccines lead to 'DNA changes' or 'transhumanism.'

The claim suggests that the body continues to produce spike proteins for over a year. However, scientific studies have shown that the mRNA from the vaccines is degraded relatively quickly, and spike protein production is transient. A study published in the Nature  journal found that the mRNA from the vaccines is cleared from the injection site and draining lymph nodes within a few days. Another study published in the Cell  journal showed that the spike protein production peaks at around 24-48 hours post-vaccination and declines rapidly thereafter.

The claim also mentions that the prolonged production of spike proteins has potential health implications. However, real-world data from millions of vaccinated individuals have shown that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination far outweigh the known and potential risks. A study published in The Lancet  found that COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and has found no evidence of long-term adverse effects.

In conclusion, the claim that mRNA Covid vaccines turn people into 'spike protein factories' is misleading. The vaccines do not alter human DNA or lead to prolonged spike protein production. The available scientific evidence shows that the mRNA and spike protein production are transient, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the potential risks. It is essential to rely on credible sources and scientific evidence when evaluating claims about health and medicine.