US FDA Approves Booster Shots for Ages 65 and Older and High-Risk Groups

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyun-ui Cho] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved booster shot vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older and high-risk groups for COVID-19.

On the 22nd (local time), the FDA announced in a statement, "We have granted emergency use authorization for an additional dose of the Pfizer vaccine for those aged 65 and older, as well as immunocompromised individuals aged 18-64 who are at high risk due to underlying conditions or occupational exposure." These individuals can receive the booster shot starting six months after their second dose.

Among the booster shot recipients, immunocompromised individuals are those who are relatively more exposed to the COVID-19 virus due to their occupation or environment. Janet Woodcock, Acting FDA Commissioner, explained, "Healthcare workers, educators in schools and childcare facilities, grocery store employees, residents of homeless shelters, and incarcerated individuals will be eligible for the booster shot."

Pfizer had previously urged approval for booster shots for all adults aged 16 and older, citing antibody decline. However, the FDA advisory panel recommended booster shots only for those aged 65 and older and high-risk groups on the 17th.

This FDA approval has immediately put a halt to the Biden administration's plan to vaccinate the entire population with booster shots. However, Bloomberg News noted, "If additional data on the safety and efficacy of booster shots are secured, the eligible population for vaccination could be expanded," indicating that nationwide vaccination remains a possibility.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.