The News-Courier staff—
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Food and Drug Administration formally granted emergency approval last Friday for the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine, paving the way for widespread distribution of the long-awaited vaccine to sites across the U.S. starting Monday.
The vaccine, which proved effective in 95% of trials, was expected to be distributed first to hospital healthcare personnel and residents and staffs of long-term care facilities.
The vote passed 17-4 as several committee members took issue with the aspect of approving the vaccine for use in 16- and 17-year-olds due to limited evidence while others argued that there was time for more research for this group.
Additional vaccines from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson are expected to be available next year and U.S. health experts are hoping a combination of vaccines will ultimately enable the U.S. to conquer the outbreak.
