March 21, 2023 – The FDA may prepare to authorize a second round of COVID-19 booster shots targeting each the unique virus and the omicron variant to guard people over 65 and others at high risk.
This is the message of The Wall Street Journalwhich published an article on Monday citing unnamed sources conversant in the discussions.
“Authorities are seeking approval of the second shot of the targeted Omicron vaccine for people aged 65 and over or with weakened immune systems, although authorities have not yet made a final decision and could change their minds, one of the people said.” The diary wrote.
For widespread distribution, booster vaccinations would need to be approved by the CDC.
The FDA approved using the so-called bivalent booster in August. The CDC granted its approval in September, but a second round of approval could be required.
Only 16% of Americans have received the bivalent booster vaccine. Yahoo News reported on March eighth.
However, some older people or people in other risk groups would really like one other booster vaccination.
The FDA has said this will likely be crucial, but some health officials say there will not be enough evidence that a booster shot every six months is effective.
Canada and the United Kingdom plan to supply booster shots to people most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 disease within the spring.
But U.S. authorities have said they need an annual vaccination schedule, “partly because many people are tired of frequent boosters.” The diary reported.
The lack of progress on the FDA is frustrating “a small but determined group of people who do not want to wait until the fall for another dose of the COVID vaccine,” STAT Reported firstly of the month.