NEW YORK (WCBS 880) -- The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has won full approval from the FDA, making it the first vaccine for the virus fully approved by the agency.
“The FDA’s approval of this vaccine is a milestone as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. While this and other vaccines have met the FDA’s rigorous, scientific standards for emergency use authorization, as the first FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, the public can be very confident that this vaccine meets the high standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality the FDA requires of an approved product,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D.
“While millions of people have already safely received COVID-19 vaccines, we recognize that for some, the FDA approval of a vaccine may now instill additional confidence to get vaccinated. Today’s milestone puts us one step closer to altering the course of this pandemic in the U.S."
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) applauded the move.
“This safe, effective COVID-19 vaccine has already saved countless lives and will now save even more," Blumenthal said in a statement. "Full FDA approval after lengthy, detailed medical review should assure everyone of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine.”