FDA Greenlights Updated COVID Vaccines for Vulnerable Populations
The FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for people aged 65 and older, and those under 65 with higher health risks. Manufactured by Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, and Novavax, these vaccines target vulnerable populations. Pfizer's vaccine for children under 5 has been rescinded, while Moderna's is now approved for ages six months and up.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted approval for updated COVID-19 vaccines, targeting individuals aged 65 and older, and those under 65 who are at heightened health risk, according to the U.S. health secretary's announcement on Wednesday.
The approved vaccines have been developed by Pfizer in partnership with German company BioNTech, Moderna, and Novavax. Notably, Pfizer's emergency use authorization for a pediatric COVID vaccine covering children under five has been revoked, marking a significant change in public health strategy.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. further elaborated that Moderna's shot is now approved for children as young as six months. Meanwhile, the updated version of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine, Comirnaty, has received a nod for those 65 and over, as well as 5 to 64-year-olds with underlying conditions that predispose them to severe COVID outcomes.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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