The FDA has just given the green light for Pfizer’s COVID-19 booster shots for kids aged 12 to 15! This news is especially relevant as students head back to school after the holiday break, and with the Omicron variant driving up case numbers in various areas.
This morning’s announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) means that teens can now receive a booster dose to enhance their protection against COVID-19. Along with this approval, they’ve also shortened the waiting period between the second dose and the booster shot from six months to just five. On top of that, certain immunocompromised children aged 5 to 11 can also get booster shots now.
“As we’ve seen the virus evolve throughout the pandemic, the FDA has had to pivot quickly, relying on the best science available to ensure the safety and health of Americans,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Gina Taylor, M.D., in a press release. “With the surge of the Omicron variant, it’s vital to continue taking effective precautions like vaccination, boosters, wearing masks, and social distancing to combat COVID-19.”
Safety Data and Approval
To back up their decision for the 12 to 15 age group, the FDA reviewed real-world data from Israel, looking closely at safety results from over 6,300 young individuals who received the booster at least five months after their initial two doses. Notably, the FDA found no serious side effects from the booster, and there were no new reports of myocarditis or pericarditis among this population.
Though this approval is great news, boosters for the 5 to 11 age group (that are not immunocompromised) are still pending. The FDA emphasized that children in that age range who have had solid organ transplants or other serious health conditions may not respond well to just two doses of the vaccine. Now, thanks to the new authorization, they can receive a third dose to help maximize their protection.
Resources for Family Planning
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Conclusion
In summary, the FDA’s approval of booster shots for 12- to 15-year-olds is a significant step in enhancing COVID-19 protection as students return to school. The agency has reviewed safety data and found no new concerns, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in this ongoing battle against the virus.
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