Today, the Commission approved the adapted vaccine Comirnaty XBB.1.5 for the treatment of COVID-19, developed by BioNTech-Pfizer. This vaccine marks yet another important milestone in the fight against the disease. Is the third adaptation of this vaccine to respond to new variants of COVID-19. The vaccine is approved for adults, children and infants over 6 months of age. According to the previous recommendations of the EMA and the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), adults and children aged 5 years and older who need vaccination should receive a single dose, regardless of their history of vaccination against COVID-19.

“I welcome this very early approval of the tailored COVID vaccine, which will target emerging and spreading variants. COVID-19 will circulate alongside the seasonal flu during the upcoming fall and winter season and we need to be ready” highlights the Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakidou.

He also notes that “this potential dual threat will put vulnerable people at increased risk and put further pressure on hospitals and healthcare workers. Vaccination is our most effective tool against both viruses, and therefore I encourage everyone who is entitled to it, especially the most vulnerable, to follow the scientific recommendations and get vaccinated as soon as possible.”