Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Likely to be Approved by US FDA For 12-15 Year Age Group Next Week

Washington, May 4: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is all set to open Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for adolescents aged 12 to 15  by early next week, according to federal officials, the media reported.

The FDA authorisation would be a welcome news to parents anxious to protect their children, The New York Times reported.

Earlier in March, results of a clinical trial led by the companies showed that the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine is extremely effective in young adolescents, even more than in adults. The children produced strong antibody responses and experienced no serious side effects..COVID-19 Vaccine Update: Pfizer, BioNTech Seek Emergency Use of Coronavirus Shots in US.

Vaccinating adolescents may also be key to boost immunity levels in the general population and thus reduce the number of hospitalisation and death, the report said.

"We can assure the public that we are working to review this request as quickly and transparently as possible," Stephanie Caccomo, a spokeswoman for the FDA, was quoted as saying by the NYT. Caccomo, however, said she could not comment on the timing of the agency's decision.

The FDA authorisation is also likely to ease concern among middle school and high school administrators planning for opening schools by later this year. If students are able to be vaccinated by then, that could allow more normal gatherings and let administrators plan further ahead in the academic year, the report said.

Along with Pfizer, Results also are expected by the middle of this year from a U.S. study of Moderna’s vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines both require two doses. Pfizer is authorised for ages 16 and up, while Moderna is authorised for ages 18 and up.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 04, 2021 01:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).