Question: With FDA’s authorization of Pfizer for adolescents, do we know how it will be rolled out? For example, do adolescents ages 12-15 get the same formulation and/or dose? Would they get vaccinated through school?
Answer: On May 10th, the FDA granted emergency use authorization for the use of the Pfizer vaccine in adolescents ages 12-15 and at 11:30am today, CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will meet to discuss and offer recommendations. In answer to your questions:
- Pfizer’s vaccine formulation and delivery is the same for everyone ages 12+: intramuscular injection administered as a series of two doses (0.3 mL each) 3 weeks apart (see FDA).
- Vaccine distribution plans vary by state and locality. School-based vaccination programs have already begun in some locales in order to reach older adolescents (ages 16+) and will likely further expand to reach younger adolescents. Additionally, just last week the President announced plans to soon begin shipping vaccines directly to pediatricians, alongside other plans to expand vaccine access.
- FDA’s Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers offers a synthesis of the Pfizer vaccine, including its safety and efficacy in adolescents ages 12-15. Several folks have asked me to share more details about the vaccine safety and efficacy in younger adolescents, so I’ll aim to provide an overview in tomorrow’s Q&A building from the information shared by FDA and during today’s ACIP meeting.