In a recent update, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s Covid-19 booster vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. This booster shot is to be given at least five months after completing the initial two doses. This decision comes less than six months after the initial vaccinations for this age group were released. Pfizer submitted their request for the emergency use authorization at the end of April after studies indicated that a third dose increased Omicron-fighting antibodies in children by 36 times.
Dr. Samuel Wright, the FDA Commissioner, emphasized in a press release, “While COVID-19 generally leads to milder cases in children, the Omicron variant has resulted in a rise in infections and hospitalizations among kids, who may face long-term effects even after mild symptoms.” He further stated, “The FDA is now allowing the administration of a single booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 Vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 years to ensure ongoing protection against the virus.”
Research involving 4,500 children demonstrated no significant side effects from the booster shot. Reports from both New York’s Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that the effectiveness of the two-dose Pfizer vaccine in children aged 5 to 12 dropped from 68% to only 12% in preventing infection. Despite this, the two doses were effective in reducing urgent care visits and hospitalizations.
Meanwhile, Moderna has also sought FDA authorization for a second booster shot for adults aged 18 and older, but a decision is still pending. Parents with children aged five and older can now choose to schedule a booster shot after the five-month interval following their initial two doses. Keeping up with booster shots is crucial for minimizing hospitalizations and complications as well as reducing the transmission of COVID-19.
For more information, check out this post about home insemination and its related topics. Additionally, resources like the World Health Organization provide excellent information on pregnancy and health.
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Summary:
The FDA has authorized the emergency use of Pfizer’s Covid-19 booster shot for children aged 5 to 11, to be administered at least five months after their initial vaccinations. This measure aims to enhance protection against the virus, particularly in light of increased hospitalizations during the Omicron wave. Research shows the booster significantly improves antibody levels without serious side effects.