HOUSTON — Pfizer said its phase 3 study found protection from its COVID-19 vaccine fades over time.
With variants emerging, the company said “a third dose may be needed within 6 to 12 months after full vaccination.” It’s now seeking authorization for a booster shot.
However, health officials aren’t convinced that it’s necessary yet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration released a joint statement following Pfizer’s announcement saying Americans do not need a booster dose at this time.
Dr. Peter Hotez is a national vaccine expert with the Baylor College of Medicine. He said that while it’s likely we’ll need booster shots eventually, studies so far show all three vaccines available in the U.S. do a good job of preventing serious illness and hospitalizations – even against the Delta variant.
KHOU reporter Stephanie Whitfield asked Hotez when he thinks booster shots may be needed.
“I would have thought maybe later in the year. Maybe early next year. We’ll see if Pfizer comes up with some compelling data to convince regulators that maybe we should move faster on it,” Hotez said.
Pfizer is expected to brief U.S. officials early this week. After reviewing the company’s data, Dr. Anthony Fauci said the government may issue a recommendation about the need for a third vaccine dose.