Overview
- The FDA cleared updated shots from Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax for older adults, with younger adults and children eligible only if they have at least one high‑risk medical condition.
- Pfizer’s authorization for children under 5 was revoked, leaving Moderna as the only mRNA option for infants and toddlers under risk‑based limits, while Novavax remains available starting at age 12.
- Distribution and cost remain unsettled because removal of emergency authorizations means insurers are not required to cover doses, though some plans pledged coverage and families could face roughly $150–$200 per shot.
- Pharmacies and state rules may complicate rollout since vaccinators often cannot verify medical risk and many states tie access to forthcoming CDC advisory recommendations expected in September.
- The updated vaccines target LP.8.1 even as CDC wastewater data show the XFG “Stratus” variant predominating, and federal officials also withdrew remaining pandemic‑era EUAs including convalescent plasma.