Uncertainty loomed as FDA advisors met to discuss this year’s COVID shot

The FDA held its annual meeting on vaccine strains this week, where experts debated whether updated COVID-19 vaccines should target a specific virus strain. However, new FDA leaders have introduced a framework limiting vaccine access to adults 65 and older with severe medical conditions, complicating approval for young people who need the shot. The agency’s decision process would require large, costly trials that could delay vaccine availability. A pediatric expert raised concerns about needing additional clinical trials if a different strain is chosen, but the issue remained unresolved as the meeting concluded.