FDA approves updated Covid-19 vaccines
CNN • • business
Key Points:
- The FDA has approved updated Covid-19 vaccines targeting new strains for various age groups, including Pfizer-BioNTech’s shot for adults 65+ and at-risk individuals aged 5-64, and Moderna’s Spikevax and mNexspike for similar age and risk groups.
- Novavax’s protein-based vaccine, Nuvaxovid, also received FDA approval for people 65 and older and those 12-64 with underlying conditions, targeting the JN.1 strain.
- Underlying health conditions increasing severe Covid risk include asthma, heart, kidney, liver or lung disease, diabetes, obesity, and pregnancy, per CDC guidelines.
- The federal government has shifted from recommending universal vaccination to advising individuals 6 months and older to consult healthcare providers before getting vaccinated.
- Although current Covid cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are low, CDC data shows rising test positivity rates nearing 5%, with vaccines expected to be available in pharmacies and doctors’ offices starting in September.
