FDA approves updated Covid-19 vaccines for Americans
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved updated Covid-19 vaccines for many Americans, reports BritPanorama. Pfizer and BioNTech disclosed that their mRNA-based vaccine has received approval for all adults aged 65 and older, as well as for individuals aged 5 through 64 with conditions that increase the risk of severe illness. This vaccine targets the recently identified LP.8.1 strain of the coronavirus.
Moderna also announced that its two mRNA-based vaccines — Spikevax and mNexspike — have been approved. Spikevax is aimed at people aged 6 months to 64 with underlying conditions and those 65 and older; mNexspike is applicable for individuals aged 12 through 64 in similar health categories. Both formulations are directed at the XFG subvariant of the JN.1 strain.
Additionally, Novavax’s Nuvaxovid, currently the only protein-based Covid vaccine available in the US, has received FDA approval for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as for those aged 12 through 64 who have underlying health conditions. This vaccine specifically targets the JN.1 strain.
The FDA’s independent vaccine advisory committee had previously voted to recommend that the XFG variant be targeted in this year’s vaccines. Health conditions that may raise the risk of severe illness include asthma; heart, kidney, liver, or lung disease; diabetes; obesity; and pregnancy, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As the traditional respiratory virus season approaches, Covid-19 case numbers remain relatively low. However, data from the CDC indicates that the test positivity rate for the week ending August 15 is nearing 5%, the highest level recorded since early February, with increases noted in every state. The CDC is also currently receiving low numbers of viral sequences, but as of early July, the XFG.1.1 strain was identified as the predominant coronavirus variant causing illness in the US. Most medical organizations advocate for vaccination, and insurance companies have indicated they will continue coverage for the shots.
With vaccines expected to reach pharmacies and medical offices by September, the landscape of Covid-19 prevention continues to evolve amid changing case dynamics.
