Novavax’s protein-based Covid vaccine has recently received authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use in individuals aged 12 and above. This approval has opened up a new competitor in the market, alongside Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines, for the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
Novavax’s vaccine specifically targets the highly contagious omicron subvariant JN.1, which has been prevalent in the United States this year. Despite accounting for only 0.2% of cases nationwide currently, the vaccine aims to provide protection against descendants of JN.1 that are more dominant in the U.S. such as KP.2.3, KP.3, KP.3.1.1, and LB.1.
The biotech company, Novavax, plans to make its vaccine “broadly available” across the U.S. through thousands of locations including retail and independent pharmacies, as well as regional grocers. This move has led to an increase in Novavax’s stock value by over 8% following the announcement of the FDA’s approval.
Unlike Pfizer and Moderna’s mRNA vaccines, which use a newer technology to stimulate the immune response, Novavax’s vaccine relies on protein-based technology. This method has been utilized in routine vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis B and shingles for several decades. The availability of Novavax’s vaccine provides an alternative for individuals hesitant to take the mRNA shots.
As public health officials consider the best vaccination options for the population, Novavax’s newly authorized Covid vaccine adds diversity to the existing choices. With the FDA approval and expected widespread availability, individuals will have more options in protecting themselves against Covid during the upcoming fall and winter seasons. The decision to authorize Novavax’s vaccine highlights the importance of having multiple options to combat the virus effectively.