Pfizer announced plans Thursday to formulate a COVID-19 booster shot targeting the highly contagious delta variant that has become the dominant strain of the virus in the U.S.
The pharmaceutical company, along with partner BioNTech, said although it believes the current two-dose inoculation would offer effective protection against all known variants, it is updating the vaccine in an effort to “remain vigilant.”
“Vaccine efficacy has declined six months post-vaccination, at the same time that the Delta variant is becoming the dominant variant in the country,” the developers said in a statement citing “real world evidence.”
Those findings, Pfizer said, are consistent with its ongoing analysis “that a third dose may be needed within 6 to 12 months after full vaccination.” People could also need a booster shot each year.
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The World Health Organization estimates the Delta variant is 55% more contagious than the original variant that spread throughout the U.S. and U.K.
Scientists say Pfizer’s vaccine is highly effective in preventing severe symptoms and death, but it may not be as great at preventing mild side effects or person-to-person transmission.
Clinical studies on the booster shot could start in August.
Hours after the Pfizer announcement, the Centers for Disease Control and Food and Drug Administration released a joint statement on the need for a third shot. "Americans who have been fully vaccinated do not need a booster shot at this time," the agencies said.
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