FDA Narrows Access to Updated COVID-19 Vaccines
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax but limited their use to seniors and to younger people with certain health conditions, such as asthma or obesity. Pfizer’s shot will no longer be available for children under age 5, leaving Moderna as the only option for that age group, and only for children with high-risk conditions. The approvals, announced by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., also revoke emergency authorizations for prior COVID-19 vaccines and require new large-scale clinical trials from Pfizer and Moderna that will stretch into 2028. The change raises questions about insurance coverage and access for families. Despite this change in approval, national medical groups continue to recommend broader use. The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to advise COVID-19 vaccination for children age 6–23 months and for older children at higher risk, while the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends updated shots during pregnancy and related stages.
🔗 Read more from AP News: FDA approves updated COVID-19 shots with limits for some kids and adults
🔗 Read more from Reuters: US FDA narrows under-65 COVID vaccine eligibility; maintains full access for older Americans
🔗 Read more from NPR: The latest COVID vaccines come with new FDA limits