FDA Approves New Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Booster Shots

Latest developments in the battle against COVID-19, including the approval of Pfizer and Moderna booster shots by the FDA address the emerging omicron subvariant XBB.1.5.

Highlights:

The FDA has granted approval for Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster shots, for the emerging omicron subvariant XBB.1.5
These booster shots are recommended for individuals aged 5 and older, regardless of their previous vaccination status
The FDA's decision emphasizes the crucial role of vaccination in public health and reducing the severity of COVID-19 cases

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for new COVID-19 booster shots developed by Pfizer and Moderna, as the United States experiences a surge in COVID-19 cases, primarily driven by the omicron subvariant known as XBB.1.5.

This latest development comes in response to the evolving nature of the pandemic, and if approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these booster shots could become available to the public in the near future.

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‘Targeting the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, Strengthening Immunity, One Booster at a Time #XBB.1.5 #covid19’

Booster Dose Recommendations

The FDA has expanded booster eligibility to individuals aged 5 and older, irrespective of their prior vaccination status. To qualify for a booster shot, it must have been at least two months since receiving the last dose of a COVID vaccine ().

For children aged 6 months to 4 years who have already been vaccinated against COVID, they can receive one or two doses of the updated vaccine, depending on which vaccine they previously received. Those who have not been previously vaccinated are eligible to receive either three shots of the Pfizer vaccine or two shots of the Moderna vaccine.

Full approval has been granted for the use of these new vaccines in individuals aged 12 and above, while they are authorized for emergency use in children aged 6 months through 11 years.

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Expected Side Effects of Booster Shots

As with previous COVID-19 vaccines, individuals should anticipate experiencing common side effects, including body aches, headaches, and general fatigue, following their booster shots. These side effects are typically mild and short-lived, serving as a sign that the body is building immunity against the virus.

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The Significance of Booster Shots

Dr. Peter Marks, the director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the critical role of vaccination in safeguarding public health and preventing severe outcomes of COVID-19, such as hospitalization and death. He assured the public that the newly updated vaccines have met rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, formerly the White House's top pandemic advisor, has noted that the current COVID-19 surge is not expected to result in a "tsunami of hospitalizations and deaths" seen in previous waves. This is due to the significant portion of the population that has been vaccinated or previously infected, contributing to widespread immunity.

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Guidelines for Recent COVID-19 Cases

While new cases may continue to emerge, the overall likelihood of overwhelming healthcare systems is relatively low.

For individuals who have recently contracted COVID-19, the CDC advises waiting for three months from the onset of symptoms before receiving a booster shot. This guidance is in line with the evolving understanding of immunity and vaccine efficacy, ensuring that booster shots are administered at an optimal time for maximum protection.

The FDA's approval of Pfizer and Moderna's COVID-19 booster shots represents a crucial step in the ongoing battle against the pandemic, particularly in the face of emerging variants like XBB.1.5. Widespread booster availability, coupled with existing vaccination efforts, contributes to the nation's collective immunity and reduces the severity of COVID-19 cases.

As public health authorities continue to monitor and adapt to the evolving situation, these booster shots play a pivotal role in safeguarding the health and well-being of the population.

Reference:

FDA Takes Action on Updated mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines to Better Protect Against Currently Circulating Variants - (https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-action-updated-mrna-covid-19-vaccines-better-protect-against-currently-circulating)

Source-Medindia