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US Government Approves Additions for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Following a review of safety information provided by the manufacturers, the US Food and Drug Administration has officially granted approval for booster doses of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. Upon obtaining the FDA’s endorsement, the companies await authorization from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to commence distribution of the boosters. If granted, these boosters could be accessible in pharmacies as early as the upcoming week.
“In light of the persisting impact of the pandemic, scientific evidence asserts that vaccination remains the safest and most efficient method to combat COVID-19, guarding against severe outcomes like hospitalization and mortality,” remarked FDA Acting Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock in a published statement.
“Data indicates declining immunity in certain fully vaccinated populations. Thus, the sanctioned boosters play a crucial role in sustaining defense against COVID-19 infections.”
In addition to endorsing the new boosters, the FDA has affirmed the safety of using various initial vaccines and boosters interchangeably. For instance, an individual vaccinated with the Pfizer vaccine can safely opt for a Moderna booster. This flexibility is anticipated to facilitate booster administration, ensuring accessibility even if a particular vaccine is unavailable in your region.
U.S. health authorities greenlight booster doses for Moderna and J&J COVID-19 vaccines, along with mix-and-match options for booster shots across the three authorized vaccines. https://t.co/DGPGXPAe99
— The Associated Press (@AP) October 20, 2021
“The flexibility to interchange these vaccines is advantageous, akin to the approach with flu vaccines. Most individuals are unaware of the specific flu vaccine brand they received,” Dr. Peter Marks, head of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, conveyed to journalists.
Presently, the boosters are exclusively recommended for the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems. However, as the FDA and CDC amass additional data, they will contemplate expanding the eligible age groups and streamlining the process.
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