FDA Approves Updated COVID Vaccines, But With New Eligibility Restrictions

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines with new restrictions on eligibility. The vaccines are now authorized for individuals aged 65 and older, who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Younger people can only receive the vaccine if they have underlying medical conditions that increase their vulnerability. This marks the first fall and winter season where the US government has not recommended widespread COVID vaccinations.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on social media that COVID vaccine mandates under President Joe Biden have been rescinded. Vaccines will be available to those at high risk after consulting with their doctors. For children, the Moderna vaccine is approved for those older than six months, the Pfizer vaccine for those older than five years, and the Novavax shot for those older than 12.

Kennedy, who has previously questioned vaccine benefits and safety, has cut $500 million in funding for flu and COVID vaccines. The FDA has also considered not renewing Pfizer's COVID vaccine for young children, which would leave no options for children under five. Vaccine usage rates have dropped in the US, with only 23% of adults and 13% of people under 18 receiving them, according to the Centers for Disease Control.