With the winter months approaching, experts warn that there could be a “winter surge” of Covid-19 cases. Even if you are fully vaccinated, it is still possible to get Covid. That’s why some experts feel that a Covid booster is a very good idea.

Back in September, the FDA refused to approve Covid-19 booster shots for all adults. Instead, the FDA decided that booster shots were only necessary for the older population and individuals who were at a high risk of contracting Covid-19. At the time, the FDA felt that there wasn’t enough evidence that the shots were necessary for all fully vaccinated adults. Two months later, things have changed.

Earlier today, November 19, 2021, the FDA approved emergency use authorization for both the Pfizer and Moderna booster shots for all adults. FDA Acting Commissioner Janet Woodcock acted swiftly to approve the new doses without waiting for a public meeting to review the submitted data. 

The CDC has not approved the booster shots yet, but it seems that the approval will happen in the very near future. On Wednesday, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said once the FDA approved the doses, the CDC would also “act swiftly.” The CDC’s panel of experts is expected to meet today to review the data. Once approved by the CDC, all fully vaccinated adults would be eligible to get booster shots.

According to Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel, “This emergency use authorization comes at a critical time as we enter the winter months and face increasing COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations across the country.”

Dr. Peter Marks is the head of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, and he is pleased with the FDA’s decision. He explained, “Streamlining the eligibility criteria and making booster doses available to all individuals 18 years of age and older will also help to eliminate confusion about who may receive a booster dose and ensure booster doses are available to all who may need one.”

Are you planning to get a booster shot once the CDC approves the rollout?