The Biden administration might implement plans to let more younger adults get second COVD-19 vaccine boosters. Officials are trying to speed up the availability of the next generation of boosters in the fall. The new strategy’s goal is to balance protecting people this summer with keeping people safe next winter. However, the new strategy has been met with mixed reviews.
The FDA plans on deciding by the end of the week. The agency is facing the dilemma that the immunity many have gotten from getting vaccinated or infected is wearing off. Furthermore, the subvariant BA.5 makes people more vulnerable. Therefore, as COVID becomes more severe and most adults under 50 aren’t eligible for a second booster, the FDA is considering opening up eligibility for a second booster for everyone.
Unfortunately, letting individuals get another booster with the original vaccine could interfere with plans for them to get the updated vaccine booster. Hopefully, the updated vaccines in the fall will help alleviate the blow of a possible winter surge. But the administration is still considering shifting the focus to the next generation of boosters.
Bivalent Vaccine Boosters to Combat COVID-19
Moderna and Pfizer scrambled to comply with the FDA’s request for the updated boosters by October or November. The agency wants the companies to make the shots available sooner. If availability is accelerated, the FDA will skip opening up fourth shots to younger adults.
Once again, the decision is receiving mixed reviews. Some think it is a rushed strategy, while others think it is the smartest option. It’s also unclear whether the new boosters can be ready by September. And who knows if BA.5 will even be the primary virus by the fall and winter? Some people believe that people younger than 50 should at least have the option to protect themselves now, especially with BA.5 already surging.
