ACIP Votes in Favor of the Pfizer Vaccine

August 31, 2021

Yesterday, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) convened to discuss the FDA approval of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots, and updates around vaccine safety.

Committee members voted unanimously in favor of the vaccine for those 16+ years of age. Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine was approved by the FDA on August 23, 2021; the ACIP’s recommendation forms the basis of the CDC’s public health guidance around use of the vaccine.

A representative from Pfizer offered an overview regarding safety updates of the vaccine, as well as a study currently in the recruitment phase which will measure the efficacy of the booster dose. Results can be expected in 2022. A potential recommendation around boosters is expected to be made by September 20th.

The ACIP will be convening in September to discuss the efficacy of booster shots based on available data, as well as distribution amongst at-risk populations.