Pfizer booster has 95.6% efficacy against COVID-19, new study says

Pfizer and BioNTech companies released a joint statement saying their Covid vaccine booster has a “relative vaccine efficacy of 95.6%” against Covid. These were the first results of the trial.

Ten thousand people aged 16 and over participated in a trial to test the Covid-19 booster shot produced by Pfizer. Based on preliminary results, they have found the results to be favorable. Results showed that the efficacy of the virus was restored to the efficacy achieved after receiving the second dose. Pfizer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Albert Bourla, said, “These results provide further evidence of the benefits of boosters as we aim to keep people well-protected against this disease.”

However, not everyone qualifies for the booster just yet. For now, it will be given to people over 65, anyone 16-65 who is immunocompromised, and those who have high exposure to the virus. Nevertheless, the two companies would move forward with submitting the data to the FDA, EMA and other regulatory agencies, allowing licensure to expand both in the U.S. and in other countries.

Boosters from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson had yet to be okayed for widespread use until last week. In September, they were given the all clear for those 65 and over and those at high risk. A federal committee voted to allow the boosters to be used last week, meaning that more people will have the ability to get their booster in the coming weeks and months.