The Food and Drug Administration has recently granted emergency use authorization for Novavax’s updated protein-based Covid vaccine for individuals aged 12 and older. This approval opens up the competition between Novavax and the well-known Pfizer and Moderna vaccines during the fall and winter seasons.
Novavax’s latest vaccine is specifically designed to target the highly transmissible omicron subvariant JN.1, which has been rapidly spreading in the United States in recent months. Although JN.1 currently accounts for a small percentage of cases nationwide, Novavax’s vaccine is said to provide protection against related variants such as KP.2.3, KP.3, KP.3.1.1, and LB.1, which are more prevalent.
The company expects its updated vaccine to be widely accessible at numerous locations across the country, including retail pharmacies, independent pharmacies, and regional grocery stores. Following the FDA’s announcement, Novavax’s shares surged by over 8% on Friday, indicating positive market reception to the news.
Public health officials view Novavax’s protein-based vaccine as a valuable alternative for individuals who may prefer not to receive mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. While Pfizer and Moderna utilize a newer technology to stimulate the immune system, Novavax’s approach with protein-based technology has been used for many years in vaccines against diseases like hepatitis B and shingles.
It remains uncertain how many people will opt to receive Novavax’s Covid vaccine during the upcoming fall and winter seasons. With only about 22.5% of the U.S. population fully vaccinated, the decision to get a new shot will ultimately depend on individual preferences and comfort levels with different types of vaccines.