Despite efficacy doubts, FDA advisors endorse Pfizer, Moderna COVID shots for preschoolers

An FDA advisory committee of independent specialists has recommended by a unanimous vote that the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines be sanctioned for preschoolers. While the blessing sets up the vaccines for long-awaited FDA authorizations, questions remain about how effective the shots will be given the rapidly evolving virus. The panel based its recommendation on clinical data gathered early this year when the omicron variant was predominant. Months later, the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of omicron are quickly changing the COVID landscape. CDC data show that the new strains account for 21% of new infections. Just five weeks ago, BA.4 and BA.5 accounted for just 1% of cases.