Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel told CNBC Thursday that pharmaceutical companies would like to provide US regulators with “flexibility” in deciding whether to qualify for a fourth Covid vaccine.
Moderna submitted a so-called second booster application last week, asking the Food and Drug Administration to clear additional shots for all Americans over the age of 18.
The demands of biotechnology companies were much broader than those of competing mRNA vaccine makers Pfizer. The fourth dose of Pfizer was intended only for people over the age of 65.
“I wanted to give regulators, the FDA and other regulators flexibility,” Bansel said in an interview with “Squawk Box.” “You have young adult people who have comorbidities factors, and they may be needed [a] An earlier fourth dose to protect them. “
Underlying conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, and diabetes can increase the risk of aggravation from Covid.
People who are already immunocompromised are eligible for four Covid vaccinations. The regimen they recommend consists of three initial doses, with boost immunization at least 3 months later.
Some doctors have questioned the need for four Covid shots for the general public in the short term. In addition, less than half of fully vaccinated people have received the first booster shot, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show, and some experts focus on increasing their intake. Suggests that it should be.
“We have submitted all the data we have to provide [the FDA] The best information possible to make the best possible decision. “