FDA grants Pfizer emergency use for COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 12 to 15

The Food and Drug Administration has expanded the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children aged 12 to 15, meaning access for millions more adolescents. The Pfizer vaccine is so far still the only one approved for use in 16-to-18 year olds. 

The emergency use authorization had been expected. An analysis that included 1,005 vaccine participants in this age group found the vaccine was 100% effective in preventing COVID-19.  In a press conference Monday night, FDA acting commissioner Janet Woodcock said that the vaccine would be distributed to adolescents in the same regimen and dose as adults.