September 17, 2021
No and yes.
That was the decision from the FDA’s independent advisory panel when it comes to covid19 vaccine booster shots. I know that sounds confusing but I’m going to explain it.
The advisory panel voted *no* to recommend a Pfizer Covid19 vaccine booster shot for everyone older than 16– but voted *yes* to recommend that same Pfizer booster shot for those who are either over the age of 65 or are at high risk of severe disease or at high risk because of their job. The recommendation is made under emergency use authorization and could be administered six months after full vaccination.
It’s important to note just because the FDA says the booster is “no” for today does not mean that it’s a “no” forever. It’s just means, “no” for right now. It’s also important to note this is just the first step in this process. The FDA and the CDC both need to either accept or deny these recommendations.
This decision from the FDA advisory panel came today during a public meeting. The panel overwhelmingly rejected Pfizer’s booster application for everyone 16 and up – by a vote of 16 to 2. The *yes* vote for those older than 65 was unanimous.
Now this is obviously a big blow to the plans of the white house. In fact, I told you in this video — the President suggested earlier this month that boosters would be available for everyone starting the week of September 20th. I told you about it in this video. Of course the President said that was dependent on the FDA’s decision – but now we know – the FDA said no.
Today’s decision is only for Pfizer’s vaccine booster. A decision about Moderna and J&J’s vaccine booster has not been made yet.
It’s also important to note last month, the FDA did approve Moderna and Pfizer vaccine booster shots for specific immunocompromised people. If you have questions about whether you fall into that category you can check out this video.
CDC booster information here.
