The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines that target recent virus strains, including the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2. The vaccines, developed by Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax, are expected to be available in the coming days. The FDA’s decision comes as a summer wave of the virus continues across the country.
The updated vaccines are designed to provide better protection against the virus, especially as immunity from prior infections or vaccinations wanes. They are recommended for everyone aged six months and older.
“We strongly encourage those who are eligible to consider receiving an updated COVID-19 vaccine to provide better protection against currently circulating variants,” said FDA vaccine chief Dr. Peter Marks.
Moderna’s updated vaccine, Spikevax, targets the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 and is expected to be available in pharmacies and care settings across the U.S. in the days immediately following approval.
“COVID-19 remains a significant health risk and is the leading cause of respiratory illness-related hospitalization, regardless of age or health condition,” said Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna.
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