"Booster Shots Every 4-5 Months? 'Not an Ideal Scenario,' Says Pfizer CEO on Optimal Vaccination Interval"

Vaccination.
Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Seoyoung Kwon] Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer, reportedly stated that "a vaccine administered once a year is ideal."

In an interview with Israel's N!2 News, CEO Bourla was asked whether COVID-19 booster shots need to be administered every 4 to 5 months. He responded, "That is not a good scenario," emphasizing that "a vaccine given once a year is preferable" and adding, "Once a year is easier to persuade people and easier to remember."

Previously, the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer in collaboration with BioNTech has been shown to significantly reduce severe progression and mortality rates against the recently spreading Omicron variant, but its effectiveness in preventing infection itself is limited. As a result, many countries are expanding the eligibility for COVID-19 booster shots and shortening the intervals between vaccinations.

CEO Bourla also stated, "We are researching a vaccine that defends against the Omicron variant while also being effective against other variants," adding, "That vaccine could be the solution." Regarding the release schedule of their vaccine targeting the COVID-19 Omicron variant, he explained, "We plan to apply for product approval around March."