Novavax's Updated COVID Vaccine Receives FDA Authorization

The FDA has granted emergency use authorization for Novavax's updated COVID-19 vaccine for individuals aged 12 and older, making it the third vaccine option available in the United States. Novavax's protein-based vaccine targets the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 and is expected to provide an alternative for those who prefer non-mRNA shots from Pfizer and Moderna. The vaccine still requires a recommendation from the CDC before it can be accessed at distribution sites. The authorization comes as Pfizer and Moderna's updated shots have already reached millions of Americans, helping to combat the surge in COVID-19 cases driven by newer strains.