FDA Grants Emergency Use Authorization to Updated Novavax COVID Shot

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted emergency use authorization for an updated version of Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, targeting the JN.1 strain. The updated vaccine is for individuals aged 12 and older. This provides an alternative for those skeptical of mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted emergency use authorization for an updated version of Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine. The updated shot, which targets the JN.1 strain, is approved for individuals aged 12 and older, providing another option during the ongoing pandemic.

Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the value of having an additional vaccine choice. However, Novavax did not immediately respond to comments on availability. This newly authorized vaccine comes shortly after approvals for updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, which target the KP.2 variant.

With the KP.2 variant accounting for 3.1% of cases and KP.3.1.1 becoming the dominant strain, updated vaccines are critical. Novavax's vaccine caters to individuals skeptical of mRNA vaccines like Moderna's Spikevax and Pfizer's Comirnaty. Despite a decline in demand since the pandemic's peak, Novavax anticipates steady demand, bolstered by their new offering.

(With inputs from agencies.)