- The FDA said on Thursday it is authorizing Pfizer's COVID-19 booster shot for 16- and 17-year-olds.
- Individuals are eligible six months after their primary vaccination shot, the FDA said.
- The regulator authorized the shot for all adults in the US earlier in November.
The US Food & Drug Administration on Thursday said it is authorizing Pfizer's COVID-19 booster shot for 16- and 17-year-olds.
Individuals are eligible at least six months after their primary vaccination shot, the regulator said.
"Vaccination and getting a booster when eligible, along with other preventive measures like masking and avoiding large crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, remain our most effective methods for fighting COVID-19," Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock said in a statement.
The FDA on November 19 had authorized both Pfizer and Moderna's booster shot for all adults in the US.
Previously, the booster shot was only given the green light for older people or those at higher risk of contracting COVID-19.
The FDA has also allowed people to mix-and-match vaccine companies for their booster shot, allowing, for example, those who got the Moderna or J&J vaccines could get Pfizer's shot as a booster.
"With both the delta and omicron variants continuing to spread, vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19," Woodcock said.
Early data from a South African study suggested that the new omicron variant may pose an issue for existing vaccine protection, but that the shots may still prevent severe illness, Insider previously reported.
This story is developing. Please check back for updates.