The Food and Drug Administration approved updated 2026, 27 COVID-19 booster formulations for people 65 and older and for younger people who have underlying conditions that raise their risk of severe illness. The approvals cover Moderna, Pfizer, and a Novavax formulation distributed by Sanofi. Moderna’s shot is authorized for ages 6 months and older and Pfizer’s for ages 5 years and older. The agency cleared shipments so manufacturers can send doses to pharmacies and doctors’ offices; Pfizer said it would begin shipping immediately and Sanofi said its doses would be available in September with timing varying by location. Agency eligibility criteria and an ongoing legal dispute could complicate access for some people, and clinicians may provide the vaccines off label to others who do not meet the authorized groups. Availability this fall depends on local supply and how providers implement the FDA’s limits.
