FDA Poised to Authorize Pfizer Vaccine for Children Aged 12-15 Next Week

pregnant couplehome insemination kits with syringes

The FDA is on the verge of granting emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 12 and older, potentially as soon as next week. Vaccination rates among adults in the U.S. have started to plateau, suggesting that most adults eager to get vaccinated have already done so. Currently, all adults are eligible for vaccination, with about half having received at least one dose and roughly one-third fully vaccinated.

The approval of the vaccine for minors is particularly significant with the upcoming school year approaching. Pfizer was among the first to receive emergency use authorization for its two-dose vaccine and has now submitted an application to extend that authorization to adolescents aged 12 to 15. Experts anticipate that this authorization could be granted within the week.

Clinical Trial Findings

In late March, Pfizer shared findings from a clinical trial involving nearly 2,300 participants aged 12 to 15. Half of the participants received the two-dose vaccine regimen, while the other half received a placebo. The results indicated a stronger immune response in the adolescents compared to young adults, with only 18 cases of COVID-19 reported among those who received the placebo. This suggests that the vaccine offers similar protective benefits for children as it does for adults.

This development is encouraging, especially given that around 300 children in the U.S. have succumbed to COVID-19, despite children generally being at lower risk for severe illness. In total, nearly 600,000 people have died from the virus since the pandemic began.

Next Steps Following Approval

Should the FDA approve the vaccine for use in children, the next step would involve a CDC panel meeting to provide guidance on distribution and whether certain groups, such as those with preexisting health conditions, should be prioritized for vaccination.

Other Developments

Meanwhile, Moderna is also conducting clinical trials for its vaccine in teenagers and younger children, with results expected later in the summer. For more information on home insemination including fertility boosters for men, you can refer to this authority on the topic. Additionally, for insights on pregnancy week by week as you navigate this journey, check out this excellent resource.

Related Topics to Explore

To learn more about related topics, here are some queries you might consider exploring:

In summary, the FDA is likely to approve the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 12-15 next week, marking an important step in the ongoing vaccination efforts as the new school year approaches. This approval could also pave the way for younger populations to receive the same protective measures that have been available to adults.