ACIP recommends Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices today recommended the two-dose Novavax COVID-19 vaccine as a COVID-19 vaccine primary series for emergency use in adults. If the CDC endorses ACIP’s recommendation, the protein-based vaccine would offer an option to individuals who may have an allergic reaction to or prefer not to receive an mRNA vaccine. The FDA last week authorized the vaccine for individuals age 18 and older. The departments of Health and Human Services and Defense this month secured 3.2 million doses of the vaccine to give states, federal pharmacy partners and federally qualified health centers. The vaccine can be stored at 2-8 degrees Celsius (about 36-46 degrees Fahrenheit), enabling the use of existing vaccine supply and cold chain channels.