FDA Authorizes Pfizer Booster for Vulnerable Individuals

1.5 minute read

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently amended the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The authorization will allow a single booster shot for certain populations at least six months after the individual’s initial two doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

This authorization will apply to:

• Individuals aged 65 or older;
• Individuals aged 18-64 who have a high risk of getting a severe COVID-19 infection; or
• Individuals aged 18-64 whose frequent occupational or institutional exposure to COVID-19 puts them at high risk of serious complications (includes health care workers, teachers, daycare staff, grocery workers, etc.)

The authorization is expected to be followed by a vote from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention who will issue a recommendation on who should receive vaccine doses.

Note that this authorization is only for the Pfizer vaccine. For those receiving Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines, the FDA is expected to review booster shots for recipients of these vaccines.

Individuals should continue to monitor the FDA for updates. Download the bulletin for more details.

This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state, and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.