CDC and FDA Approve Updated COVID-19 Vaccines Targeting Omicron XBB.1.5
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have given the green light for updated COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines target the Omicron XBB.1.5 variant and are recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. The CDC's advisory panel voted unanimously in favor of the recommendation.
The updated vaccines are designed to provide better protection against currently circulating subvariants like Eris and Pirola, which are closely related to XBB.1.5. They are expected to offer a boost in immune protection for those whose antibody levels have waned over time.
The FDA has approved the updated vaccines for people 12 years and older, and authorized them for emergency use for children ages 6 months through 11 years. The vaccines are formulated to more closely target the circulating variants and have shown effectiveness against newer strains in data provided by Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax.
In the U.S., COVID-19 hospitalizations have been on the rise since early July, reaching over 18,000 for the week ending Sept. 2, according to CDC data. The updated vaccines are expected to be available at pharmacies, health clinics, and other vaccination sites later in the week.
While the CDC recommends the new COVID-19 vaccination for all people aged 6 months and older, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) in Germany currently recommends annual booster shots primarily for high-risk groups. The updated vaccines are a crucial step in staying ahead of the virus as it continues to evolve, and they will be available for the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
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