FDA Approves Fall COVID Boosters and Updated Vaccines to Combat Variants

The FDA has approved updated COVID boosters from Moderna and Pfizer, targeting the XBB.1.5 omicron subvariant and other related variants. The shots could be administered later this week, pending approval from the CDC. The boosters are recommended for anyone 5 years old and above, regardless of previous vaccination status. Children aged 6 months to 4 years may receive one or two doses depending on previous vaccinations, while unvaccinated children in that age range have the option of receiving three doses of Pfizer or two doses of Moderna. The vaccines are considered a good match for currently circulating variants and provide protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Doctors recommend getting a booster if you haven't received one since last fall and haven't recently had COVID.