Parents in the US who want to vaccinate their young children against Covid-19 may face challenges this fall. The FDA might not renew authorization for Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine for children under 5, affecting their ability to receive protection against severe illness from Covid-19.
The CDC has informed state and local health officials that Pfizer’s pediatric COVID-19 vaccine may no longer be available to children aged 6 months to 4 years due to the FDA’s potential decision. This would leave Moderna’s vaccine as the only option, but it would require consultation with a healthcare provider, which could lead to confusion.
Vaccine access for the youngest children is crucial, as they are most vulnerable to severe illness from Covid-19 infections. Pfizer anticipates full FDA approval for its vaccine in this age group and plans to expand its availability. However, if the FDA does not renew emergency authorization, vaccine access would be significantly limited.
The CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases has updated its immunization schedule to reflect the change. Experts are concerned about the potential impact on vaccination rates, particularly among vulnerable populations.
“Covid-19 vaccines first became available during the pandemic under emergency use authorization,” said Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert. “Now it’s confusing if we’re making decisions for children based on their health status.”
The FDA has confirmed that it may not renew the EUA for Pfizer’s vaccine in this age group. However, discussions are ongoing to determine potential paths forward.
Parents and advocates urge caution, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable children. “Taking a proven, safe and effective vaccine away from vulnerable children is unconscionable,” said Fatima Khan, co-founder of Protect Their Future.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/12/health/covid-vaccine-children-pfizer-fda