FDA authorizes Novavax's updated COVID vaccine targeting JN.1 strain

31/8/2024 6:26

        The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday granted emergency use authorization for an updated version of Novavax's COVID shot.
        
        The updated vaccine is authorized for use in individuals 12 years of age and older and will target the JN.1 strain of the virus.
        
        Shares of the company were up about 5% in late afternoon trading.
        
        "Today's authorization provides an additional COVID-19 vaccine option," said Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.
        
        The company did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on availability.
        
        Earlier this month, the health regulator approved updated COVID-19 vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna targeting the KP.2 variant.
        
        JN.1 was the dominant strain in the United States earlier this year. While it is no longer as prevalent, it is estimated to account for 0.2% of cases over a two-week period ended Aug. 31, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's data showed.