Moderna (NASDAQ: MRNA) has received approval from the Philippines Food and Drug Administration for its coronavirus vaccine for children between 12 and 17 years.
The FDA Director-General Rolando Enrique Domingo said, “With the Delta variant affecting a lot of children, the experts saw that the benefit of using the vaccine outweigh the risks.”
The Philippines approves Moderna vaccine for adolescents
The company submitted clinical data and documents to the FDA on August 19 to expand its coronavirus vaccine for children below 18 years. Domingo indicated that following conclusions regarding the efficacy and safety of the vaccine in young adults. With the increased Delta variant threat, experts concluded that the use of the Moderna vaccine in children was more than risks.
Although the amended Emergency Use Authorization means that children from 12-17 years will receive the vaccine, it is essential to note that the country still faces limited supplies for priority groups. Because of this, health officials have indicated that they will continue prioritizing doses for high-risk individuals, including those with comorbidities and the elderly. In addition, experts warn that adults need to get the COVID-19 vaccine as early as possible and continue practicing necessary health standards to protect their kids.
Moderna vaccine batches not part of contaminated doses
While announcing the approval, Domingo stated that doses so far delivered by Moderna to the country weren’t among those being probed for contamination. However, early reports indicated that Japan was investigating Moderna vaccine doses that had been contaminated with steel particles. Interestingly Health officials suggest that the contamination doesn’t pose any health risk considering stainless steel is used in joint replacement, heart valves, and staples.
Since March, when the vaccination drive started, around 17.53% of the Philippines have received the first vaccine dose. As of August 29, 20121, 12.51% had received the second dose.
