FDA Greenlights Pfizer Covid-19 Booster Shots for Children Aged 5 to 11

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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 is to be administered at least five months after the completion of their initial two vaccinations. This announcement comes just under six months following the rollout of the standard Covid vaccinations for this age group. The authorization request was submitted by Pfizer at the end of April, based on data indicating that a third dose significantly boosted Omicron-fighting antibodies in children, increasing them by 36 times.

Dr. Samuel Thompson, the FDA Commissioner, emphasized in a recent statement, “Although COVID-19 is generally less severe in children compared to adults, the recent Omicron variant has resulted in increased hospitalizations among younger populations, and children may suffer from long-term effects even after mild infections.” He added that the FDA is permitting the use of a single booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for kids aged 5 to 11 to enhance ongoing protection against the virus.

The booster shot study involved 4,500 children and reported no significant side effects or adverse reactions. Research from New York’s Department of Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that the effectiveness of two doses of the Pfizer vaccine in children aged 5 to 12 has decreased from 68% to just 12% in preventing infection. However, the two doses still substantially reduced visits to urgent care and hospital stays.

Meanwhile, Moderna has sought similar FDA authorization for a second booster shot for adults aged 18 and older, though a decision on that request is still pending. Parents with children 5 and older can now schedule a booster shot after the initial five-month period following their two doses. Keeping up to date with booster shots is crucial to minimizing hospitalizations and complications, as well as reducing the spread of COVID-19.

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In summary, the FDA has authorized the use of Pfizer’s Covid-19 booster for children aged 5 to 11 to enhance their protection against the virus, particularly in light of the increased hospitalization rates due to the Omicron variant. The decision follows studies showing the booster’s effectiveness and safety profile. Parents are encouraged to consider scheduling the booster to keep their children safe.