The United States has authorized the use of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine boosters among individuals over 65 years of age and adults who have a high risk of severe disease and people in high-exposure occupations.

A significant proportion of the population will now be eligible for a third vaccine dose six months after receiving the second jab. The authorization has come after an independent expert panel voted recommending the move last week. The panel had dismissed an initial plan to approve Pfizer boosters for all individuals aged 16 and above, stating that the benefit-risk profile was different for younger people, particularly the young males who are more prone to myocarditis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may also recommend further specifications about the recipients of the Pfizer booster jabs. The agency may also have to define the workplaces and other settings which may result in frequent exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus… (NDTV – AFP, September 23, 2021)