IAS Gyan

Daily News Analysis

PFIZER AND MODERNA COVID VACCINE    

20th November, 2021 Health

 

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Context

  • In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the authorization of the Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccine booster doses for all adults aged 18 and older.

 

About

  • Earlier, booster shots were allowed for people aged over 65 or for those at high risk of severe disease.
  • Booster shot is an additional dose of a vaccine needed periodically to 'boost' the immune system.
  • In medical terms, a booster dose is an extra administration of a vaccine after an earlier (primer) dose.
  • After initial immunization, a booster injection or booster dose is a re-exposure to the immunizing antigen.
  • It is intended to increase immunity against that antigen back to protective levels, after memory against that antigen has declined through time.
  • For example, tetanus shot boosters are often recommended every 10 years, by which point memory cells specific against tetanus lose their function or undergo apoptosis.

 

Conclusion

  • The decision will help to provide continued protection against Covid-19, including the serious consequences that can occur, such as hospitalization and death.

 

https://newsonair.gov.in/News?title=US-extends-authorization-of-Pfizer%2c-Moderna-Covid-vaccine-booster-doses-for-aged-18%2c-older&id=429974