Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency) approved this Monday (10) the extension of the validity period of Pfizer’s adult vaccine from 12 months to 15 months. The expansion goes even for doses that have already been distributed by the Ministry of Health to the states.
According to the agency, there are lots in Brazil with a validity of 9 months and 12 months. Thus, regardless of the date printed on the package, the doses are valid for 15 months. Anvisa also authorized the laboratory to import new batches with an expiration date of less than 15 months.
as showed the Sheet in June, the Ministry of Health was counting on the extension of the validity period of the immunizing agent. The request was made to Anvisa by the manufacturer. In April last year, the agency authorized the validity to be extended from 9 to 12 months, both for the adult and pediatric vaccines.
This Monday’s decision, however, applies exclusively to the adult vaccine – with a purple cap. Thus, the pediatric vaccine remains valid for 12 months, either the orange cap (which is intended for children aged 5 to 11 years) or the wine cap (released for babies from 6 months to 4 years of age).
The collegiate board took into account opinions issued by the agency’s health registration and inspection areas, and stressed that the data provided by Pfizer allow tracking and identifying the validity of batches already distributed.
“This approval aims to speed up the offer of vaccines to the Brazilian population. The company is responsible for keeping the information on batches and expiry dates up to date with the Ministry of Health, professionals involved in the application of vaccines and citizens,” he said in a statement.
“Finally, Anvisa considers in all decisions that vaccines are approved after a robust technical evaluation and having demonstrated that their global benefits outweigh their risks. Vaccines continue to be essential in combating the pandemic, especially in preventing serious diseases and death.”
Pfizer provides information on the expiration date of adult and pediatric vaccine batches on the websites www.pfizer.com.br/ and www.comirnatyeducation.com.br/ (aimed at healthcare professionals). People can also consult the information at the Fale Pfizer customer service, by calling 0800 770 1575.
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