The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for new Covid-19 vaccine boosters developed by Pfizer and Moderna to target the latest variants of the virus. This decision comes as hospitalizations due to Covid-19 continue to rise. The approved boosters will specifically target the XBB.1.5 strain, which was the dominant strain earlier in the summer. These boosters will be available to the public as early as this week.
The FDA announced on Monday that the new vaccines have been approved for individuals aged 12 and older. In addition, an emergency use authorization was granted for children as young as six months old. The FDA assured the public that these updated vaccines have met rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality. They strongly encourage eligible individuals to consider getting vaccinated.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is expected to release usage guidelines for the revised vaccines on Tuesday. The CDC advisory panel may recommend that the shots be given to people at high risk of severe complications from Covid-19, such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, rather than to the general population.
Although the XBB.1.5 strain is no longer the dominant Covid-19 strain in the US, Pfizer and Moderna have stated that their updated boosters are effective against the more recent EG.5 and FL.1.5.1 variants. These vaccine manufacturers reported last week that the new vaccines generated strong antibody responses to the BA.2.86 variant, which is related to the Omicron variant and has raised concerns due to its numerous mutations.
Despite warnings from the Biden administration about rising infections, many Americans remain skeptical about the safety and effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines or simply no longer worry about the virus. Only 17% of those eligible for the last Covid-19 booster shot received one, indicating hesitancy or complacency among the population.
In conclusion, the FDA’s approval of the Pfizer and Moderna boosters targeting the latest variants of Covid-19 provides an important tool in combating rising hospitalizations and protecting those at high risk. It is crucial for eligible individuals to consider getting vaccinated to help prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the severity of illness among those who do contract it. The CDC’s upcoming guidelines will provide further clarity on vaccine distribution and prioritize those most vulnerable to severe complications from Covid-19.
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