Pfizer and Moderna Likely to Apply for Approval of 4th Dose Vaccination

Voices for "Vaccination Across All Age Groups" Emerge in Biden Administration

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Pfizer and Moderna are expected to soon apply for approval of the 4th COVID-19 vaccine dose for seniors aged 65 and older.

The Washington Post (WP) reported on the 15th (local time), citing three sources, that "Pfizer is likely to submit an application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as early as the 16th."

Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer, recently stated in an interview with CBS, "In addition to booster shots, additional doses are necessary to maintain immunity against COVID-19."

CEO Bourla said, "Receiving a booster shot significantly reduces the risk of death and hospitalization," but added, "The risk of COVID-19 infection itself remains."

Moderna is currently testing the 4th dose, including an Omicron-specific vaccine. According to WP, Moderna did not respond to inquiries about whether it would apply for approval of the 4th dose.

However, Moderna CEO St?phane Bancel suggested the possibility in a media interview that day, saying, "The 4th dose is most effective for the elderly."

In the interview, CEO Bancel said, "I strongly recommend the 4th COVID-19 vaccine dose for those aged 50 and older with weakened immune systems, similar to the flu vaccine."

The FDA is expected to convene an advisory committee next month to discuss the 4th dose issue. Since many experts believe that booster shots alone are sufficient, it is expected to be a subject of debate during the FDA review process.

Currently, in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the 4th dose only for patients with compromised or weakened immune systems. However, some officials in the Biden administration reportedly believe that all age groups should receive the 4th dose, according to WP.

The New York Times stated, "Even if the FDA approves the 4th dose for those aged 65 and older, additional doses for the general adult population will likely only be possible this fall."