Pfizer, a US pharmaceutical company, has urged the approval of booster shots, stating that the preventive efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech deteriorates over time.
According to Reuters on the 15th local time, Pfizer said in a document submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), based on accumulated data so far, that the third dose is required for those 16 years of age or older who have been receiving the second dose for six months. mentioned.
Pfizer said its clinical trials showed that the vaccine's efficacy weakened by about 6% every two months after the second dose.
The document also noted the fact that breakthrough infections were more common among those who were vaccinated earlier.
The fact that the vaccine's efficacy is decreasing over time, the company added, is also showing that the vaccine efficacy is diminishing from the actual immunization data in Israel and the United States, rather than in clinical trials.
In addition, Pfizer reported to the FDA that in a clinical trial conducted with 300 people, the third dose produced an improved immune response compared to the second dose.
In Israel, where booster shots have already started, a third dose has been shown to restore high levels of protection against COVID-19, Pfizer said.
However, the FDA has yet to comment on Pfizer's claim that emphasizes the need for a booster shot.