FDA panel endorses lower-dose Moderna COVID shot for booster

Washington, Oct. 14 (BNA) – US health advisers said, Thursday, that some Americans who received the Covid-19 vaccine should receive a half-booster dose to enhance protection against the virus.

The Food and Drug Administration’s panel of advisors voted unanimously to recommend a booster injection for older adults, and adults with other health problems, jobs or living situations that put them at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.

The recommendation is non-binding but is a major step toward expanding the US campaign in support of millions of Americans. Many people who got their initial Pfizer shots at least six months ago are already getting a booster shot after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized their use last month.

As for the dose, Moderna’s initial vaccine consists of two 100-mcg injections. But Moderna says a single 50-mcg dose should be enough for a booster.

The agency met with its experts Thursday and Friday to comment on who should get reinforcements and when people who received shots of Moderna and Johnson & Johnson earlier this year should get.

The FDA will use its advisors’ recommendations to make final decisions about boosters from both companies. Assuming a positive decision is made, another hurdle remains: Next week, a committee convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will provide more details about who should get one.

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