FDA Approves Updated Covid-19 Booster Shots from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna

The FDA has approved updated Covid-19 booster shots from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna for the fall season. The CDC’s vaccine advisors will likely recommend the updated boosters soon, followed by a final decision on release by CDC Director Mandy Cohen. The safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality of both vaccines meet the FDA’s rigorous scientific standards, and the organization is encouraging eligible individuals to consider getting vaccinated. Novavax, another pharmaceutical firm, has announced its vaccines are ready to ship but was not included in the FDA’s clearance.

The vaccines are expected to be updated annually or in response to new variants. Effectiveness data shows Moderna’s updated booster can boost immunity against the latest circulating variant, while Pfizer and BioNTech’s approved booster applies to people 12 years and older, previously vaccinated or not. Vaccines are due to be available in the coming weeks. Despite the challenges of encouraging their uptake, health officials are optimistic that experience and time will lead to more acceptance.

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