Topline
Moderna requested the Meals and Drug Administration to log off on a second booster dose of its coronavirus vaccine for all U.S. adults late Thursday, two days after Pfizer requested federal regulators to authorize an additional booster shot for individuals ages 65 and older.
Vocational nurse Christina Garibay shows a syringe with Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine … [+]
AFP by way of Getty Photos
Key Information
Moderna proposed authorizing a second booster shot for everyone ages 18 or older, a much more sweeping request than Pfizer’s, however the firm advised the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention might resolve to suggest it only for older individuals and different higher-risk teams.
The corporate stated its utility to the FDA consists of information from america and Israel collected after the coronavirus’ omicron variant took root.
Large Quantity
47.8%. That’s the share of absolutely vaccinated U.S. adults who’ve obtained one booster shot, according to the CDC. By comparability, 75.3% of whole adults are absolutely vaccinated in opposition to the coronavirus.
Key Background
The push for a second booster shot comes amid considerations that coronavirus vaccines may wane in effectiveness over time, particularly as new variants emerge. Israeli well being officers recommended 4 Moderna or Pfizer pictures—two preliminary doses and two boosters—for adults in January, citing early information that advised a fourth dose may enhance safety in opposition to Covid-19, although different research have discovered it gives restricted safety in opposition to the omicron variant. Professional opinions are blended: Some docs and medical agencies assume repeatedly providing boosters of the identical vaccine method may provide diminishing returns.
Shocking Truth
In January, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice (R) requested the CDC to approve a second booster shot for residents ages 50 and over and other people at increased danger of Covid-19.
Additional Studying
What We Know About Fourth Covid Vaccine Doses—Together with If We May Want One (Forbes)
Will States Provide 4th Covid Vaccine Doses? West Virginia First To Ask CDC For Permission (Forbes)
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