Pfizer Seeks FDA Approval for COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Aged 5-11

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In a highly anticipated development for parents, Pfizer and BioNTech have formally requested the FDA to grant emergency use authorization for their COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11. If approved, this could potentially make 28 million additional children in the U.S. eligible for vaccination. The pharmaceutical companies have stated that they have provided the FDA with data demonstrating the vaccine’s safety and efficacy for this age group.

The FDA has committed to expediting its review of this request, especially in light of the recent surge in pediatric COVID-19 cases, driven by the delta variant. A meeting has been tentatively scheduled for October 26 to evaluate the submitted data and consider Pfizer’s request. Should everything proceed as planned, a decision could be reached between Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Many parents have been eagerly awaiting a vaccine for their children, particularly as schools have reopened for in-person learning amidst rising delta cases. Vaccinating kids would not only help protect them during family gatherings and travel but also minimize disruptions to their education. This academic year has already seen multiple school closures and isolation mandates due to virus outbreaks.

The urgency of this vaccine request comes at a time when pediatric COVID-19 cases are at an all-time high, with around 30,000 hospitalizations reported in August alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics noted that by the end of that month, approximately 5.9 million children had contracted the virus. Tragically, around 500 deaths in individuals under 18 have been attributed to COVID-19, with 125 of those occurring in the 5 to 11 age group.

The vaccine under review for children is administered at a dose one-third the size of that given to adults. The FDA will assess not only the safety and efficacy data but also aspects related to the vaccine’s production quality. Furthermore, the distinct dosage for children necessitates unique packaging and labeling, which will be addressed during the FDA’s review process. Officials will also determine if children should receive one or two doses, similar to the adult regimen.

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In summary, Pfizer has submitted a request to the FDA for emergency use authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11, potentially allowing millions more to be vaccinated. As the FDA reviews the data, parents remain hopeful for a swift decision to help protect their children during ongoing pandemic challenges.

Keyphrase: COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11

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