Background
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme that helps the body to break down folate. The MTHFR enzyme is made by the MTHFR gene. Harmless changes in the MTHFR gene, polymorphisms, are very common. Importantly, MTHFR polymorphisms do not cause any significant health problems. MTHFR gene variants or mutations are different to gene polymorphisms and are very rare. For more information about the MTHFR gene, refer to the resource below [Resources: VCGS MTHFR].
MTHFR gene polymorphisms and vaccines
People who have MTHFR gene polymorphisms can safely receive vaccines. There is no increased risk of adverse events following immunisation (AEFI).
MTHFR gene polymorphism testing
There is no clinical indication for MTHFR polymorphism testing before vaccination.
Resources
Authors: Nigel Crawford (Director SAEFVIC, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute) and Margie Danchin (Senior Research Fellow, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute)
Reviewed by: Katie Butler (MVEC Education Nurse Coordinator) and Sally Gordon (MVEC Senior Research Fellow)
Date: October 2023
Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre (MVEC) staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.
You should not consider the information on this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family’s personal health. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult a healthcare professional.